Cambodia opposition leaders appeal for royal pardon
Leader Sam Rainsy and acting president Kem Sokha of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) have together sent a letter requesting amnesty to King Norodom Sihamoni.
After the 2013 election, Prime Minister Hun Sen (R) shakes hands with CNRP leader (L) at a meeting. (Source: AFP)Phnom Penh (VNA) – Leader Sam Rainsy and acting president Kem Sokha of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) have together sent a letter requesting amnesty to King Norodom Sihamoni.
It was reported that the King received the letter on October 8 and transferred it to Prime Minister of the Royal Family Hun Sen on October 11.
Hun Sen replied by a document on October 12, stating that charges against the two CNRP leaders fall within court jurisdiction.
According to Cambodia’s constitution, the authority of the court is independent and cannot be intervened by other sources of power. All citizens need to respect the law and constitution and be responsible for their violations. The Government’s duty is to ensure legislation and social security; law enforcement is key to security and democracy.
Ram Rainsy has been living in exile since November 2015 to avoid serving a two-year jail sentence for defaming Deputy PM Hor Namhong in 2008. He was also fined 2,500 USD by the Phnom Penh Court for defaming National Assembly President Samdech Heng Samrin. On October 6, he has been summoned as a suspect by the country’s prosecution agency for questioning in connection with security disturbances on September 11.
Kem Sokha, on September 9, was sentenced by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court to five-month imprisonment and a fine of 800,000 Riels (200 USD) for his failed appearance at the court.
Both CNRP officials have yet to execute their sentences.
Cambodia’s law regulates that the King has right to sign amnesty papers but a proposal by the Prime Minister of the Royal Family is required.-VNA
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