Hun Sen placates Canadian ambassador over Kem Sokha

Prime Minister Hun Sen on Friday met with Canadian Ambassador Donice Pottie at the Peace Palace and clarified the ongoing treason case against Kem Sokha to her after she expressed concern over his detention. His explanation to the ambassador prompted a former CNRP lawmaker, and an academic, to express opinions that Mr Sokha’s case may soon go to trial and if found guilty, Mr Hun Sen may request a pardon for Mr Sokha from King Norodom Sihamoni.

Mr Sokha was arrested in September 2017 after the authorities accused him of colluding with the United States to topple the government. His arrest led to the Supreme Court dissolving the CNRP. Mr Sokha was released on bail in September last year and placed under court supervision. He is banned from making trips abroad or leaving a four-block radius surrounding his home in Tuol Kork district.

Sry Thamrong, minister attached to the Prime Minister, said Ms Pottie expressed concern to Mr Hun Sen over Mr Sokha’s detention. “She expressed concern regarding the issue of the former opposition party and the detention of Kem Sokha,” Mr Thamrong said. “In response, Prime Minister Hun Sen said Kem Sokha is not detained, but has been placed under court supervision and the investigation into his case is still ongoing.”

read more https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50650624/hun-sen-placates-canadian-ambassador-over-kem-sokha/