Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has removed a one-month-old ban on public rallies after the country’s general situation has improved, Gen. Kheng Tito, spokesman for the National Military Police, said on February 26.

The Cambodian Government imposed a temporary ban on demonstrations on January 4 after strikes of local workers turned violent, leaving at least 5 dead and some 40 injured.

On February 25, addressing the inauguration of Cambodia’s first thermal power plant in Preah Sihanouk province, PM Hun Sen said supporters of both the opposition party and the government have the right to stage demonstrations. He also affirmed that he does not call for a re-election.

Cambodia has seen a major political row since last July following a general election in which PM Hun Sen’s ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) won 68 parliamentary seats against 55 seats for the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP).

Claiming serious irregularities during the poll, the CNRP refused to accept the outcome and have held many protests calling for the resignation of PM Hun Sen and a re-election. Both appeals have been rejected by the Prime Minister.

Last September, CPP and CNRP leaders gathered at two meetings in order to tackle political differences, but no agreement was reached.

On February 18, the two parties’ working groups agreed to create a joint committee for electoral reforms. However, its role, tasks and working time are yet to be identified.

In addition, a meeting between CPP and CNRP scheduled for February 27 has been cancelled.-VNA