(Phnom Penh): The Japanese Embassy in Cambodia expressed support for the royal pardon granted to former opposition leader Kem Sokha, according to an official statement seen by Fresh News on Friday (May 29).

“The recent decision to pardon Kem Sokha was part of positive development regarding human rights and democracy in Cambodia,” the statement underlined.

The statement added, “The Embassy of Japan in Cambodia welcomes this move and continues closely monitoring the situation surrounding democracy in Cambodia. We also continue to provide concrete support for the development of democracy in Cambodia.”

On 25 May 2026, Acting Head of State Samdech Techo Hun Sen issued the Royal Decree granting a pardon to Kem Sokha, who had previously been sentenced to 27 years in prison. The pardon applies only to the prison sentence imposed as the principal penalty.
=FRESH NEWS