Cambodian leader marks end of Khmer Rouge reign following deadly crackdown

End of Khmer Rouge reign celebrations shortly follow violent crackdowns on Phnom Penh streets.

Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen has made his first public appearance since a violent crackdown cleared anti-government protesters and striking garment workers from the streets of the capital, Phnom Penh.

Attending the 35th anniversary marking the overthrow of the Khmer Rouge regime on January 7, 1979, the long-time leader made no comments about operations to clear protestors that left four dead over the past week.

The chairman of the Cambodian National Assembly, Heng Samrin, spoke for the administration.

"The Cambodian People's Party will do whatever to defend the constitution and the royal government of Cambodia that was formed through an election," he said.

Around 10,000 people attended a rally organised by the ruling CPP at Koh Pich Hall, known in English as Diamond Island, as part of the anniversary.

Hun Sen faces an increasing challenge to his nearly three-decade rule from striking garment workers as well as from opposition supporters demanding that he step down and call a new election because of alleged fraud in last July's vote.

On Friday, police opened fire on striking garment factory employees on Veng Streng Boulevard in the capital's Meanchey district.

Rights activists say at least four civilians were shot dead in what they described as the country's worst state violence against its citizens in 15 years.

A day later, security personnel armed with shields and batons chased hundreds of protesters - including monks, women and children - from their rally base in Freedom Park in the capital.

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http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/international/2014-01-07/cambodian-leader-marks-end-of-khmer-rouge-reign-following-deadly-crackdown/1244354