Former Funcinpec Phnom Penh First Deputy Governor Mam Bun Neang, a long-time supporter

of Prince Norodom Ranariddh, has defected from the Norodom Ranariddh Party (NRP)

and returned to Funcinpec. In return, he has been appointed a government adviser,

local French daily Cambodge Soir reported on January 11.

A royal decree dated December 30 and signed by acting head of state Chea Sim appointed

Mam Bun Neang to the post immediately after he joined Funcinpec.

Mam Bun Neang was the NRP's treasurer.