Cambodian authorities deny reports of aid shortages for displaced people

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 6, 2026 (KPT) – The Cambodian government has rejected claims that displaced citizens in safety centres are facing shortages of essential supplies, calling the reports “false information” spread by groups seeking to divide the Khmer people.

Government spokesman Pen Bona told reporters that those in safety centres are receiving full support coordinated through ministries and provincial authorities.

“All displaced citizens are provided with accommodation and essential supplies, including food, electricity, water, sanitation facilities, and round-the-clock healthcare services,” he said.

Bona added that clean water is supplied through donations and on-site purification systems, while security is maintained at all centres. Services are free of charge, supported by national and international organisations, friendly countries, the private sector and philanthropists.

The centres also provide temporary schooling for children, Buddhist moral instruction, and vegetable gardens initiated by Dr Pech Chanmony Hun Manet to help residents grow their own food.

Authorities stressed that displaced citizens receive moral and emotional support through visits, welfare checks and donations from Prime Minister Hun Manet, the Cambodian Red Cross, diplomatic missions and other organisations.

Officials said more than 92 percent of the 640,000 displaced citizens have returned home, while around 50,000 remain in centres due to blocked roads and container barricades imposed by Thai forces.

Cambodia is pursuing diplomatic solutions to border issues with Thailand under a joint declaration signed in December 2025. The Joint Border Commission has been tasked with demarcating the boundary to ensure safe returns.

Bona underlined that protecting national territory and citizens remains the government’s top priority, insisting that the Cambodia-Thailand boundary, established by earlier commissions and treaties, cannot be altered by force.