Cambodia’s Ministry of Defence has accused Sam Rainsy, the leader of the opposition party , of his offensive remarks against the country’s King Norodom Sihamoni, pledging to do its utmost to protect national dignity and the monarch’s reputation.

The statement came on April 6 after Sam Rainsy, the president of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), said in a letter to the king on April 2 that the existing National Assembly (NA) of Cambodia, which currently only includes lawmakers from the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), does not represent the entire local people and reflect their aspirations.

Sam Rainsy’s letter was a response to King Sihamoni’s message to the NA, calling on it to tackle challenges and ensure peace, stability, security and social order for the country’s sustainable development.

The Cambodia NA and Government issued statements to oppose Sam Rainsy’s remarks disagreeing with the king’s opinion. The Government said it will consider a firm measure against the CNRP leader.-VNA