Cambodian Opposition Politician Seeks Overturn of Incitement Conviction
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — A Cambodian opposition politician, Rong Chhun, emerged from a Supreme Court appeal on Monday, greeted by a crowd of enthusiastic supporters. The 56-year-old adviser to the Nation Power Party hopes to have his incitement conviction overturned, enabling him to return to political life.
Rong Chhun was convicted of inciting social unrest last year after engaging with villagers displaced by government projects. His four-year prison sentence and ban from political activities were criticized as part of the government’s efforts to suppress dissent, particularly under Prime Minister Hun Manet.
At the courthouse, approximately 300 supporters chanted slogans such as “Drop the charges, release Rong Chhun!” while displaying banners advocating for his freedom. Rong Chhun addressed them, emphasizing his desire to foster “national reconciliation and national unity” amid Cambodia’s ongoing challenges, including tense relations with Thailand and economic difficulties.
Expressing hope for justice, Rong Chhun stated, “I hope the court will grant me freedom and justice so that I can continue to practice politics in the future.”
Security was tight around the court, with police barricades blocking access roads, as Rong Chhun made his way to the hearing alongside supporters and human rights advocates. He expressed a willingness to face imprisonment, declaring, “We are not worried about going to prison. We are willing to sacrifice everything and we are determined to use the resources our parents gave us to invest so that Cambodia can achieve true freedom and democracy.”
Authorities in Cambodia frequently use incitement charges against political opponents. Rong Chhun had previously faced a two-year sentence in 2021 for allegedly spreading false information regarding Cambodia’s border with Vietnam, which was overturned later that year by an appeals court.
Despite claims by Cambodia’s government of upholding the rule of law within an electoral democracy, opposition parties that pose significant challenges to the ruling Cambodian People’s Party often face dissolution or persecution. The long-standing leadership of former Prime Minister Hun Sen, succeeded by Hun Manet in 2023, has been marked by criticism over human rights issues and limited political freedoms.
Supporters like Tim Ratha, who traveled from Siem Reap province, demonstrated their solidarity with Rong Chhun. “He has devoted everything to us, he had no wife, no children,” the 55-year-old vendor shared.
The Supreme Court’s decision is scheduled for June 19.
