Dear Editor,

My eyes welled with tears as I read of the “hurt” felt by Phnom Penh Governor Kep Chuktema following his realisation that commune officials within his jurisdiction were engaged in corruption (“Lakeside corruption claim”, June 18). The governor seems to have experienced “ontological shock” – that is, the intense feeling of confusion and pain that comes with the realisation that one’s worldview has been shattered. He has come to understand the reality; society is rife with corruption and disregard for the rule of law, and this brings him pain.

It is also interesting that he now acknowledges that behind each of the countless Land Cruisers jamming the streets are many people that have been “hurt” by conspiring government officials.

Perhaps he can now imagine the pain of the former residents of Dey Krahorm and the other thousands of innocent urban and rural citizens that have not only been “hurt” but have lost house, home and source of income due to similar acts of corruption by state officials. Perhaps the newly enlightened Kep Chuktema will become a leading advocate for ensuring the rule of law and the elimination of the scourge of corruption. Perhaps he might start by undoing some of the pain caused to his current and former constituents.

Roger Nault

Phnom Penh

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The views expressed above are solely the author’s and do not reflect any positions taken by The Phnom Penh Post.