The Editor,

Re my letter to the editor ("Qualified Pardon" PPP Sept 20-Oct 3). In

my letter I sent, expressing my personal opinion regarding the issue of Khmer Rouge

leadership pardons, the last sentence was printed in error.

The sentence appeared as:

Hopefully, any decision on pardons will be made in the knowledge that the ramifications

may be inherently beneficial and not detrimental to Cambodia's recovery.

The original copy did not include the word not, as it appeared in the Post. The sentence

should read:

Hopefully, any decision on pardons will be made in the knowledge that the ramifications

may be inherently beneficial and detrimental to Cambodia's recovery.

I am sure that the error was an honest mistake. I only wish that the error be noted

so that my true intentions of the letter will not be misunderstood. My intent was

to say that the issue of pardons and amnesties for Khmer Rouge leaders will carry

with it the possibilities of good results, such as a reduction in the combat in the

countryside, but that pardons also carry with them the possibility that individuals

guilty of crimes against humanity and genocide may be allowed to live in the freedom

that they denied millions of others. I am opposed to an unconditional pardon.

Because I am involved with the Cambodian community, it is important my views be presented

as I intend because I am ultimately accountable for what I say or write. In the past,

the Phnom Penh Post has been gracious in allowing me to address Cambodian issues

by way of the "Letters" section of the publication. I thank you for the

opportunity to make this clarification.

- Jim Yost, Texas, USA.