Sophon, Chairman of the Parliament, has ordered urine tests for parliamentary police, emphasizing that as civil servants they must conduct themselves with honor and dignity, strictly forbidding any involvement with drugs, and enforcing stringent security measures.
On 22 May 2026, Mr. Sophon Sarum, Chairman of the Parliament, delivered policy directives to parliamentary police officers, the Security Office, vehicle management staff, and personnel from the Finance and Budget Office. Mr. Sophon stated that parliamentary civil servants have honor and dignity equal to other civil servants, though they are often seen as mere support staff for meetings. In reality, parliamentary civil servants hold dignity comparable to prosecutors. To maintain this honor, they must conduct themselves properly. The parliament is currently developing, and with changes occurring, everyone must be ready to adapt. They aim to move away from old ways. Security officers must oversee both the parliament building and all individuals using the space. Any part of the building’s structure should serve the public, not just parliamentary meetings, so ongoing development should facilitate public convenience.
Regarding individuals, both members of parliament and parliamentary civil servants, at the first parliamentary civil service committee meeting, Mr. Sophon appointed a committee to review outdated regulations to enhance work efficiency and promote dignified and happy work. Changing members of parliament is difficult, but as Chairman, he will strive to correct inappropriate behavior in duties and support knowledgeable, capable individuals to advance in their roles.
Parliamentary police officers must behave like police; if they diminish their own honor, their credibility declines. They must gain the public's trust. Regular training is essential to avoid reactive measures. Security in all aspects is a priority, and officers must be prepared for any situation. Mr. Sophon cited that, from his experience as an MP to now, no parliamentary police have ever forcibly removed members from meetings, so officers must command respect and be exemplary by not neglecting drug-related issues.
Following the policy announcement, urine tests were conducted on parliamentary police officers, with an emphasis that the intent is not to punish but to resolve issues. Inviting the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), an external agency, to conduct the tests confirms parliament’s genuine commitment to addressing drug problems and setting an example.
Mr. Sophon added in an interview that ONCB officers were invited to test the urine of parliamentary police and parliamentary drivers due to current issues with drug spread and security concerns.
His principle is to improve the efficiency of all civil servants here, starting with the police, focusing on both physical fitness and discipline. The first step is ensuring no involvement with drugs. Parliamentary police discipline must match regular police standards to prepare for unrest. The parliament building is a vital national site; thus, parliamentary police must enforce strict security for both the premises and individuals. Training programs will follow to support this mission.