Phnom Penh (FN), Oct. 7 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen warned to arrest Facebook users who made comments to support former opposition leader Sam Rainsy's plot to overthrow the legitimate government, addressing during a meeting with A graders, held Monday at the Peace Palace.

“Making comments on Facebook to support the plot is not freedom of expression, but considered [conspiring] to topple the government,” said Prime Minister.

Over the past few days, several people were consecutively arrested on the charge of “conspiring” to overthrow the government.

Ministry of Justice Spokesperson Kim Santepheap, on late Friday, urged any individuals who are currently in the plot to overthrow the government to step back; and report to authority in order to be amnestied in accordance to Article 454 of the penal code.

“To be pardoned from the charge of [conspiring], a person must confess prior to accusation,” said Santepheap following the announcement of “nine fingers” campaign.

The dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) has announced the launching of the “nine fingers” campaign – supporting former opposition leader Sam Rainsy to return to Cambodia on 9 November following years of exile.

“From today until 9 November, we must raise nine fingers to show support for November 9 at every meeting and greeting,” former CNRP senior official Ho Vann posted on Facebook on 23 September 2019.

Prime Minister Hun Sen warned ex-CNRP’s nine fingers campaign of a “plot to topple government. He said joining the campaign means conspiring to topple the government, which is a serious crime to be punished intolerably.

“Those who plan to join campaign to destroy peace on 9 November will be sentenced,” the premier warned.
=FRESH NEWS