Funcinpec-Nationalist parties a step closer to merger

By Khmerization
Source: Kampuchea Thmey

The royalist Funcinpec Party and Nationalist Party, formerly Norodom Ranariddh Party, is a step closer to a permanent merger after recent talks between the leadership of the two parties, reports Kampuchea Thmey.

During a press conference in Phnom Penh on Wednesday, Mr. Keo Putrasmy (pictured), Funcinpec president and spokesman, said Funcinpec and the Nationalist Party have agreed to go the 2012 commune election in a joint candidate list by using Funcinpec name.

Mr. Keo Putrasmy, who is married to ex-King Sihanouk's daughter, Princess Arunrasmy, said Funcinpec is a historic name and the front and party was created by the ex-King Sihanouk, therefore it is important to keep the name.

Mr. Keo Putrasmy said Funcinpec is open to cooperations and alliances from other political parties such as the Sam Rainsy Party, Human Rights Party and the Nationalist Party because these parties have their origins in Funcinpec.