Dispensation of Justice by the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia: A Critical Appraisal

Abstract

This article examines the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia established to try those responsible for the atrocities perpetrated against the Cambodian people by the former Khmer Rouge Regime (1975-1979). It focuses on the trial of the first case conducted by the ECCC which resulted in the 'lenient' judgment. The paper then outlines in details the factors such as political interference, corrupt practices and inordinate delay of the legal process which are undermining the ECCC's credibility to administer fair justice to the victims of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. Finally, it stresses on the fact that the failure of the ECCC and its stakeholders to duly address these fundamental issues would end in the farcical dispensation of justice.