The event of arms clash in Phnom Penh on 5-6 July 1997 was caused by the confrontation between the armed forces of Royal Government and the illegal forces of the gang of extremists in collusion with the outlawed forces of Khmer Rouge and the Mafia's terrorists. This unfortunate incident had caused fear among Cambodian people and foreigners staying in Cambodia. Meanwhile, there is a distortion and exaggeration of the real situation in Cambodia from some sources of media. In fact, the event was neither the coup, nor the seizure of power, nor the confrontation between the CPP and FUNCINPEC political parties, nor the personal conflict between Samdech Hun Sen and Prince Norodom Ranariddh, nor any kind of revolution, it is only the operation to protect the internal security and safety for the state and people.
At present, the situation in Cambodia is returning to normalcy. The Royal Government of Cambodia continues its normal function in the form of the coalition government which consists of all parties having the seats in the National Assembly. The National Assembly, which has been stagnated for a period of 7 months, now resumes its work and is conducting its 8th session of 1st legislature on Monday, 28th July 1997. Moreover, the Pochentong International Airport, domestic airport, public services, goods circulation and all kinds of businesses in society have been resumed as normal.
But so far, some members of the National Assembly, members of Royal Government, civil servants, officials of military and police armed forces have not yet returned to continue their works in ministries, establishments, and units.
To emphasize its authentic position, the Royal Government of Cambodia appeals to the members of the National Assembly, members of Royal Government, civil servant, officials of military and police armed forces at all strata and the members of FUNCINPEC and other political parties who are in fear and skepticism whether outside or inside the country to come forward and resume your positions as before so as to participate in the reconstruction and development of our beloved Angkor motherland. The Government will warmly welcome and accept you with the promise of maintaining your positions and roles as before and assure you with full safety and security.
The Royal Government firmly hopes and is convinced that you will carefully consider with fair judgment of the past event by holding dear interest of the Khmer nation and people and decide to return to the country and resume your work.
In parallel to the appeal recently made by the Acting President of the National Assembly, the Government appeals to those who are the members of the National Assembly to come and participate in parliamentary session which has been proceeded normally, especially, in the forthcoming session of voting of confidence for First Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia to be held on August 6, 1997.
Phnom Penh, August 5, 1997
On behalf of Royal Government of Cambodia
Hun Sen
Second Prime Minister