More than 30 Preah Sihanouk provincial officials are threatening to walk off their jobs unless the government investigates nepotism allegations they have levelled against Governor Chhit Sokhon.

In a letter sent to the Ministry of Interior on January 16, the officials complain that Sokhon appointed his son Chhit Rattanak to the position of Provincial Hall deputy administrative director. They also allege that Sor Kakada, a friend of Sokhon, was appointed by the governor to the deputy governorship of Prey Nob district.

They said that the appointments were made without any discussion on the relevant provincial and district committees and accused the governor of general mismanagement and a lack of transparency.

Interior Ministry spokesman Khieu Sopheak said yesterday that the letter had been received and the ministry would investigate. But he added that no action would be taken until it was clear which party was in the wrong.

“We have seen the letter, but we have not taken any measures yet because the case needs to be studied and observed first. Normally, the way we conduct an investigation is by looking into the case directly at the site,” he said.

In response to the allegations, Sokhon said the appointment of Rattanak and Kakada went through the Ministry of Interior.

“In all my work that I have done so far, I have always followed the law. It’s not like these allegations say.”