Sophon Sarum exploded after being accused of "serving the administration and acting as government lackey." He clarified issues regarding the majority’s use of meetings for 35 committees and challenged that if wrongdoing occurred, it should be reported through proper channels. He urged against baseless insults and emphasized observing actions. He declared that the opposition has crossed the line multiple times and warned of legal repercussions in court.
At 15:20 on 3 Nov 2026 at the parliament, Sophon Sarum, Speaker of the House of Representatives, clarified criticism that he was acting to assist the government. He said the accusations were largely unfounded and used as rhetoric to discredit his work for satisfaction. He found it ironic that the opposition previously thanked and praised him for using his influence to coordinate during the government no-confidence debate, which enhanced the parliament’s dignity, even proposing to hold debates in early December. Yet now they claim he delayed and served the administration. He expressed regret that agreements made at leadership level were being misrepresented and called for cooperation among all as he wishes well for the parliament and wants to preserve its image to the public. Regarding opposition calling him a government lackey, he questioned whether such political language was necessary and if they spoke just for satisfaction.
Sophon continued regarding complaints about overlapping committee work causing heavy workloads for civil servants, as there are 35 committees plus many subcommittees. He said he noticed this problem since his ministerial days and wanted more efficient work. Importantly, complaints were made that committee chairs abused power contrary to rules. Therefore, a meeting was called where the majority agreed to follow rules requiring any matters brought up to be first asked in meetings about whom to invite or which issues to consider. He concluded that following the rules was necessary, so the parliamentary legal team drafted regulations which he approved as proposed by the secretary-general. Today, allegations arise claiming this was to silence and block opposition scrutiny, but if silencing were true, the opposition does not chair every committee. In parliament, the opposition cannot win simply by majority vote; democracy relies also on discussion.
He said he cannot accept baseless claims and reminded that if wrongdoing occurs, complaints should be filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission or ethics processes. Since governance follows rule of law, regulations and laws guide everyone’s conduct. He said such exaggerated talk harms the parliament. As Speaker, when rules are disrespected, he must enforce them. If anyone violates, legal procedures exist. The public should be the judge of this matter.
"If I err, there are channels to address it, but please do not insult or accuse me with such language. If accusations arise, I also have channels to respond. Anyone violating ethics must face ethics procedures; for minor offenses, internal parliamentary processes apply, while serious offenses go to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. I am disappointed in the opposition’s rhetoric, slander, and baseless accusations, especially calling me a government lackey. I ask, in what way am I a lackey? This is an excessively harsh accusation. I have long been disappointed and demeaned by opposition words. There was one opposition member’s harsh accusation made openly which I keep confidential to avoid great damage. I warn not to underestimate others or think only you are right and good while everyone else is bad. To be good depends on actions, not words. I am ready to prove my work shows love for the country, its people, and the nation. I have worked until now with no legal cases, including in major ministries, always with a clean record," Sophon said.
When asked for any message to the government and opposition, Sophon said he had none and that everyone should do their duties. The opposition and legislature must follow the law and rules; anyone acting beyond their role is wrong and can be legally prosecuted. He condemned using parliament as a stage to sow hatred or distort facts, causing political discourse to be filled with vulgarity, insults, and unproductive sarcasm. Regarding the Democrat Party leader’s remark about possible complaints against him, Sophon said if he violates the constitution, complaints should proceed accordingly. It’s time to be serious because the opposition has crossed lines many times, even within parliament.
