Since beginning of decentralization implementation in 2002, almost commune councils were keen and very hard to learn and respect principles and regulations. From time to time, they gain more experiences and knowledge of decentralization and local governance reforms. But at the same time, they are reported not active or not take strong focus/care in their daily jobs and responsibilities as commune councils, elected by local people through proportionate-party-listed system. It is particularly noted in these recent years, after the second CC election and while Cambodia gains much benefits from economic growth. They are reported lazy; not/rarely go to commune offices, late in submitting their reports to Provincial Local Administration Units, not regularly conduct monthly meetings, etc.

Based on what I heard, my experiences and my talk with some PLAU staff, and recently on 8th May 2008, I talked with Chief of Kratie PLAU, I noticed that the high tendency in land business transaction has made commune councils busy with land titling. Some commune councilors are businessmen and farmers. Another important notice is that if they could not achieve their works or finish their works on time, there would be help from local administration support officials, namely referred to District Facilitation Team and Provincial Facilitation Team. Without following-up or pushing-up activities from PLAU and other stakeholders, it is hard to see CCs can do their works well or do on time in accordance to schedule. However, in the mean time, we have to acknowledge that some other CCs are doing well in implementing decentralization reforms and local development.

To my understanding, if CCs are lazy, lack of commitment or incapable and wait for outside support and help, then challenges for success of decentralization reforms still exist. I think the government may take two measures, carrot and stick measures. For CCs which do not follow rules and regulations or misconduct shall be punished in accordance to the existing laws or dismissed. For CCs which do well shall be encouraged through making these CCs a high profile throughout the country, increasing their monthly allowances, increasing their budget expenditures or giving them rights to collect some types of local revenues/fees. These measures would cut down numbers of non-good communes and increase efficiency of CCs’ works.

BY IM SOKTHY