Prominent Cambodian opposition politician Rong Chhun appealed his incitement conviction at the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn a sentence that bars him from politics. He was found guilty of inciting social unrest after meeting with villagers displaced by government projects.
The case highlights concerns about the suppression of political opposition and freedom of speech in Cambodia under Prime Minister Hun Manet's government, continuing a trend from his predecessor's rule.
A prominent Cambodian opposition politician, Rong Chhun, has appealed his incitement conviction to the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn a sentence that bars him from political activities. Chhun, a key adviser to the Nation Power Party, was found guilty last year of inciting social unrest after meeting with villagers displaced by government construction projects. He was sentenced to four years in prison and prohibited from voting or holding office.
During his appeal hearing, Chhun maintained his innocence, asserting that his actions were limited to posting photos and comments on Facebook. He emerged from the court to a crowd of approximately 300 supporters chanting for his release and the dropping of charges. Chhun expressed a desire to promote national reconciliation and unity within Cambodia, citing the country's economic struggles and regional tensions.
Incitement charges are frequently used against government opponents in Cambodia. Chhun had previously received a two-year sentence for similar charges in 2021 related to comments about Cambodia's border with Vietnam, but he was released by an appeals court later that year. Despite the government's claims of promoting the rule of law, political parties challenging the ruling Cambodian People's Party have faced dissolution or legal action against their leaders. The Supreme Court is scheduled to issue its verdict on June 19.