(Phnom Penh): Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of Cambodia, signed a royal decree granting a pardon to Kem Sokha on 25 May 2026. This has emerged as a significant political development attracting considerable national and international attention.

Kem Sokha, the former leader of the Human Rights Party and former Vice President of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), was arrested in September 2017 on treason charges associated with allegations stemming from a 2013 video recorded in Australia.

Following extensive legal proceedings, including 66 hearings between 2020 and 2022, the Phnom Penh Municipal Court sentenced Kem Sokha in March 2023 to 27 years in prison and stripped him of his political rights. The Court of Appeal upheld this verdict in April 2026, which also imposed a five-year travel ban.

Public interest in his case waned until 19 May 2026, when a poignant video featuring Kem Sokha speaking emotionally to his 101-year-old mother garnered widespread sympathy and calls for humanitarian consideration.

Subsequently, on 25 May 2026, a royal pardon was issued in the name of King Norodom Sihamoni, following a request from Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. This decision restored Sokha's freedom of movement within Cambodia, though certain political restrictions and travel limitations remain in place.

The public response, along with support from opposition figures, has characterised this action as a significant step toward national unity and reconciliation.

Following the issuance of a Royal Decree granting a pardon to Kem Sokha, Chea Thyrith, Spokesperson for Samdech Techo Hun Sen, said the move reflected Prime Minister Hun Manet’s political virtue, humanitarian leadership, and commitment to national reconciliation.

The spokesperson also emphasized that the royal pardon reflects efforts to strengthen national unity and reconciliation, guided by the moral principles and statesmanship of Cambodia’s leadership, particularly its younger generation of leaders. He noted that many Cambodian citizens have expressed support for and appreciation of the decision.

Opposition parties and political figures have also expressed support, viewing the pardon as a constructive step towards alleviating political tensions and fostering a more democratic environment.

In conclusion, this royal pardon signifies a transformation in public sentiment from sympathy to celebration, reflecting a collective aspiration for reconciliation and national unity in Cambodia.
=FRESH NEWS