Cambodia's Supreme Court upheld the lower court's ruling, convicting Rong Chhun, senior advisor to the opposition Nation Power Party, of inciting social unrest. However, the court suspended the remaining prison sentence, allowing him to avoid jail. He remains banned from political activities, including running for election, for 5 years and is prohibited from traveling abroad for 3 years.
The Supreme Court in Phnom Penh confirmed the guilt of 56-year-old Rong Chhun, a outspoken politician and senior advisor of the opposition Nation Power Party, on charges of inciting social unrest. Nevertheless, the court ordered the suspension of his remaining prison sentence, so he will not be taken into custody.
Rong Chhun's lawyer, Em Chanta, told the media that the Supreme Court ruling suspended the remaining 3 years of a 4-year prison sentence given last year. However, the court upheld other penalties, including a 5-year ban on all political participation, such as voting rights, holding political office, and running for election. Additionally, he is prohibited from traveling abroad for 3 years.
The case dates back to 2024 when Rong Chhun met with villagers affected by government land eviction for a construction project. During this, he criticized Prime Minister Hun Manet's visit to the border area adjacent to Vietnam. The charge of incitement is frequently used by Cambodian authorities against activists and political dissenters.
The atmosphere outside the Supreme Court was tense as about 200 supporters broke through police barriers, shouting demands to "drop the charges against Rong Chhun." One supporter told AFP the verdict was unacceptable because people want to see more democratic space and national reconciliation.
After the verdict, Rong Chhun told reporters outside the court, "This is an unjust decision." He suggested that those in power in Cambodia deliberately use the law to bar him from contesting the local elections in 2027 and the general election in 2028. He added, "Today's ruling shows I still have significant influence, which makes those in power afraid to grant me freedom to compete in the 2027 and 2028 elections."
Although the Supreme Court's decision is final, Rong Chhun said he remains hopeful and will consult closely with his legal team to consider petitioning King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia for a royal pardon.
Human rights groups have long criticized the Cambodian government for using the justice system to silence opposition and dissent. Last month, Kem Sokha, the former opposition leader sentenced to 27 years for rebellion, was granted a royal pardon. However, his political rights and voting rights remain revoked.
/sourceAssociated Press/ AFP