Constitutional Day in Cambodia
Constitutional Day is a public holiday observed every September 24th in Cambodia. The purpose of this holiday is to commemorate the proclamation of the country’s constitution on this date in 1993. Under this constitution, the king became the head of state, and the National Assembly was given legislative power.
Cambodia (Public holiday)The prime minister of the country is chosen from among the pool of representatives of the political party that has the largest number of seats in the assembly by the king. Since this is a public holiday, it is a day off for the general population, and schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed.
The History of Constitutional Day in Cambodia
Cambodia is a country that has suffered great strife and many tribulations over the course of its history. This includes wars, genocide, and colonial occupation by hostile powers. During the 1970s, the country suffered under the Khmer Rouge regime of Pol Pot, and this regime was immediately followed by the Cambodian-Vietnamese War—a war that lasted until 1991.
That year, the Paris Peace Agreements were signed. A new constitution was created to help the country transition into a more democratic and modern country. This constitution established a constitutional monarchy, and it was signed into law by Prince Sihanouk on September 24, 1993.
This established the Kingdom of Cambodia, and the prince was elected as Cambodia’s King and sworn in on the very same day. Constitutional Day was created to give people a day off and allow them to enjoy their hard-earned freedoms.
Observing Constitutional Day in Cambodia
This holiday is celebrated with many institutions closing for the day and with parades and other festivities. People use the day to spend time with loved ones or to organize events in their towns and villages. The hashtag #CambodianConstitutionalDay can be used on social media to spread the word about this holiday.
Cambodia (Public holiday)
