Bangkok--7 Sep--OHCHR-Bangkok
We are very concerned about the escalating atmosphere of intimidation ofopposition politicians, their supporters, civil society, and peacefuldemonstrators in Cambodia.
Over the past few days, a strong show of force was conducted by the armedforces at the headquarters of the main opposition party, the CambodiaNational Rescue Party (CNRP). This, combined with an increase in rhetoricby high-level army officials, who have vowed to defend the ruling partyagainst political opposition, is deeply worrying. We remind the Governmentof its duty to take measures to ensure the safety of all Cambodians,particularly high profile political opponents.
The party's Acting President Kem Sokha is due to appear in court on Fridayon charges of refusal to appear as a witness in another case – againsthimself and two members of his party for alleged perjury and prostitution.These are among a host of legal charges faced by Kem Sokha and 29 other
members or supporters of the CNRP. Fourteen of them have been convicted andgiven heavy prison sentences. The weak evidentiary basis of the charges andthe accompanying procedural flaws raise serious concerns about the fairnessof the proceedings.
We urge the authorities to adhere strictly to international fair trialstandards during the criminal proceedings, including ensuring transparencyin the administration of justice.
Concerns about public security have also been invoked by the Government toblock peaceful protests, and to arrest and charge demonstrators. Justyesterday in Phnom Penh, the authorities set up roadblocks and mobilizedtroops in an attempt to block a CNRP event to deliver petitions andarrested 10 persons in connections with an unrelated protest. Alsoyesterday, 10 people were arrested in connection with another protest inPhnom Penh.
We urge the Government, ahead of the local and national elections in 2017and 2018, to create an environment conducive to the enjoyment of freedom ofexpression, peaceful assembly and association, which are particularlycritical in a pre-electoral context.