PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Cambodian lawmakers passed a measure Monday to allow the government to apply to the courts to have a party dissolved, an act aimed at the sole opposition group in Parliament.

The opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party boycotted Monday’s 90-minute debate on the legislation and subsequent vote, in which all 66 lawmakers from the ruling Cambodian People’s Party who were present voted in favor.

The amendments now need approval from the Senate, a formality since the chamber is controlled by the ruling party.

Long-serving Prime Minister Hun Sen suggested the amendments earlier this month, in what is seen as an attempt to shore up his party’s strength ahead of local elections this year and a general election in 2018.

Associated Press