The justice sector annual conference was held on March 27. Justice Ministry
Minister of Justice Koeut Rith has instructed the Kingdom’s judicial institutions to ensure their services are provided with transparency, quality and effectiveness. He acknowledged that the sector still faces some challenges.
Speaking at the opening of the justice sector annual conference, Koeut Rith said the March 27-29 gathering provided an opportunity for the attendees to speak frankly with each other and update themselves on current policies, reform measures and the direction of the sector, as well as any challenges which may affect the provision of services and the effectiveness of judicial reform.
Pointing to the first phase of the government’s Pentagonal Strategy, he noted the two pillars of the planned reforms: Justice system reform and the strengthening of out-of-court dispute resolution mechanisms.
Chiv Keng, president of the Supreme Court, said that improving the effectiveness of the justice system is crucial towards strengthening the rule of law, preventing violations of the law and social injustice, and building public confidence.
“The presidents of courts at all levels must pay close attention to improving the effectiveness of their work. They must take responsibility for resolving all existing cases and implementing the changes we want to see,” he added.
Chea Leang, prosecutor-general at the Supreme Court, said that in her capacity as the head of the discipline council, she urged all prosecutors to complete their duties to avoid disciplinary measures.
“Fulfilling their functions mean they must observe all of our procedures. All judges need to be onboard with strengthening and promoting the quality and effectiveness of our justice system,” she added.
A ministry press release explained that the three-day conference was a historic event, as it was the first ever justice conference to be attended by the judges and prosecutors of all levels of the Kingdom’s judicial system.
“It was held at a time when the entire judiciary is making a joint effort in two major reform campaigns: accelerating the resolution of cases at all courts, and reviewing and solve irregularities at each court,” it added.
