Editor's note: The Post takes the pulse of the nation ahead of

the July 27 general election. In this, the second in the series, we talk to a cross-section

of Phnom Penh citizens.

"I will not go to vote, because all the parties are the same. They will be good

only if they can develop the country. I am angry with them, because they haven't

helped me make any progress in my life."-Hun, 39, pagoda dweller and a scavenger.

"I don't want the same leader every term-I want a change to see what the country

will become with a new leader. I don't really believe in any party's promises, but

if they keep them, the country is sure to make quick progress. I prefer the party

whose aim is to reduce or eliminate corruption."- Vireak, 27, sugar cane juice

vendor.

"I like the party that helps people overcome poverty and that helps reduce corruption.

The elections get better each time, and I believe we can have a freer election."-Ratha,

25, barber.

"The SRP will win, because [Rainsy] has many supporters who are factory workers,

taxi drivers, and a lot more poor people. And the CPP will agree with the result.

The head of government is just like soup-we people do not want to have the same old

soup all the time. If we are to have new and good leaders, people's lives will improve.

We work back-breakingly hard, but live just hand to mouth."-Sitha, 30, TV repairman.

"As a lower-level Cambodian, I dare not say which party I prefer. But I totally

believe in the election. If the CPP fails, this means our jobs and accommodation

will be lost."-Anonymous vendor, 23.

"The CPP is benefiting the country everywhere. You can see pagodas, schools,

roads and bridges because they have willingness to develop the country. I decided

to vote to choose a good leader. I think election day will be safe ... but after

the election, it might not be safe because the parties will only oppose each other

for power."-Puth, 23, motodup driver.

"Who knows what will happen on election day? For me it is important to vote

since I want a new leader and better living conditions. For small parties, needless

to say, their chance for success is nil."-Sok, 27, taxi driver.

"I want a new leader who can protect our land. There are a lot of Vietnamese

people living in our country now. If we still have the same leader, our nation will

be a second Champa. I don't mind if the CPP remains in power, but make sure they

change their corrupt manner. I don't believe the NEC in the least."- Veasna,

43, sugar cane juice vendor.