Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 9 – Phnom Penh Municipal Court has released seven opposition activists last week, while the other four will be released between 10-12 November 2021.

Municipal court spokesman Plang Sophal told Fresh News earlier on Tuesday.

The court has held a series of hearings and announced a verdict on 26 October 2021 on criminal trials related to the Khmer Thavarak activists and announced the verdict on 1 November 2021 on Kak Sovanchhay’s criminal case.

Hong Lim, a Cambodian-Australian expatriate, was acquitted.

The seven activists released include Chum Puthy, Chhou Pheng, Mean Prommony, Koet Saray, Tha Lavy, Eng Malai. They were charged with incitement to cause serious social unrest and sentenced to 20 months in prison and fined 2 million riel. The six had served in prison for 15 months. After released, they will be put under judicial supervision for two years.

Besides, activist Sat Pha was arrested during a protest in front of the Chinese Embassy on 23 October 2020.

The other four activists to be released include Kak Sovannchhay, who will be released on 10 November; Muong Sopheak on 11 November; and Hun Vannak and Chhoeun Daravy on November 12.

The spokesman added that the four other convicts who had completed their sentences had not yet been released as they were convicted in other criminal cases. The four includes opposition activist Kong Sam An, and Mother Nature activists Long Kunthea, Phuon Keo Reaksmey and Thun Ratha.

Court spokesperson Sophal added that the subsequent release contributed to resolving overcrowded prisons.

On 4 November, Cambodian Justice Ministry issued guidelines on the principles to be followed in the prosecution, judicial inquiries and trial stages to expedite proceedings of the cases that contribute to resolve overcrowding in prisons.
=FRESH NEWS