An estimated 40,000 opposition supporters took to the streets in capital Phnom Penh in the afternoon of December 29 to protest against the government of Prime Minister Hun Sen and demand a re-vote following the July parliament election.

It was the 15th day of the opposition's daily protests and was the largest-ever since the disputed July poll because of the participation of thousands of garment workers.

The rally was headed by President of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) Sam Rainsy and his deputy Kem Sokha.

Security forces have been seen deployed along streets and government buildings to ensure security and public order.

This large-scale demonstration took place after Sam Rainsy expressed his hope to return to negotiations with the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) of Prime Minister Hun Sen.

At a press conference on December 28, Sam Rainsy said the talks, possibly from January 1-3, could be attended by representatives of civil society and trade unions organisations and political parties.

He said contents regarding the on-going strikes of workers are expected to be discussed during the talks.

PM Hun Sen rejected the opposition’s requirements and asked security forces to keep calm, avoid conflicts with protesters and patiently wait for the negotiation.

Political dispute between Hun Sen's ruling CPP and Sam Rainsy's opposition party has persisted since the July election results showed that the CPP won a majority of vote with 68 parliamentary seats against 55 seats for the opposition.

The opposition refused to accept the outcome and has boycotted parliament since then.-VNA