As in the previous articles about FUNCINPEC, your article "FUNCINPEC split over
Phnom Penh governor decision" ["Hun Sen loyalists take key posts as rumors
fly"] published in your November 12-25, 1999 edition is based on pure rumors.
About the accusations, your article pointed out that the sources "all conceded
there was no proof." Should Phnom Penh Post want to maintain its reputation
as a credible paper, you should have checked and double checked for proofs, in particular
when the article can be libeled as defamation.
Concerning HRH Samdech Krom Preah Prince Norodom Ranariddh's decision over the choice
of the governor of Phnom Penh, I wish to inform you that the Board of Directors discussed
at more than one of its bi-monthly meetings the process for choosing the candidates.
We forwarded the candidates to HRH Samdech Krom Preah and we also left it to the
President to make the final choice. The Board did not take any responsibilities nor
give other alternatives to the President who, according to the party By-laws has
the right to make the final decision.
As for the properties transferred to HRH Princess Norodom Marie Ranariddh "as
a part of the deal," [Editor's note: no such quote was used in this connection]
I wish to inform you that the first piece of land was transferred to Samdech Rasmey
Sobbhana Foundation in 1994, and the property mentioned in your article was transferred
to the Foundation in 1996. The Foundation has other centers in other provinces. The
Foundation has been in existence since early 1980s. HRH Princess Marie is the founder
and Honorary Chair of the Foundation.
As other board members, I am proud to serve such a foundation and we remain active
in seeking funds to support vocational training and child care services to the poor.
Please accept this letter as a proof to help you give your esteemed readers credible
information and as a contribution to help keep Phnom Penh Post a respectable paper
for Cambodia.
Mu Sochua, Board Member, Samdech Rasmey Sobbhana, Phnom Penh
