|
Statement
from Mr. Lorne Craner Today is the anniversary of a day to remember, a day
when 20 people were killed and more than 100 injured merely for exercising
their constitutional right to peacefully assemble.
March 30, 1997 reminds us why we are committed to democracy -- so
that one day all Cambodians will have the freedom to follow their
consciences and trust that their safety is being respected and protected. IRI was greatly affected as our Resident Country
Director Ron Abney was one of the many people injured.
As we memorialize the horrific losses of that day in 1997, we must
also remember what came out of the attack. Today also is the anniversary of a day of renewal, a
day that allows us to celebrate the growth and maturity of the Sam Rainsy
Party. Since that fateful
event eight years ago, SRP has continued to shine as a beacon of democracy
in Cambodia. The leadership
and unity of the SRP was tested on March 30, 1997 and the party came out
stronger. As we honor the
casualties of the grenade attack, we must also honor the one reason that
brought everyone together that day:
the hope for a better, more democratic future. As President
Bush stated in his second inaugural address “All who live in tyranny and
hopelessness can know the United States will not ignore your oppression or
excuse your oppressors. When you stand for your liberty, we will stand
with you.” Today, and
tomorrow, IRI will be with you to support those who strive for a more
democratic Cambodia. |