The Cambodia Reform Party is led by former lawmakers Ou Chanrath and Pol Ham, both of whom are very close to opposition leader Kem Sokha. Chanrath founded the party last year and is contesting around 50 communes around the country.
The former lawmaker said he did not consult with Sokha while forming the party — which is the only opposition entity linked to the Sokha-led Human Rights Party. If the party were to win commune positions, it would work to empower the grassroots and ensure there is no corruption in the delivery of public services. Chanrath said he had to contest this election because an uncontested ballot risked turning Cambodia into a “second China.”