Cambodia Report Claims $75 Million in Damages From January Demonstrations

[geovalin]

Khoun Theara,

PHNOM PENH — The Cambodian government says it has no plans so far to carry out a lawsuit against the opposition for damages from violent demonstrations in January.

The Ministry of Interior has released a report, claiming $72 million in public and private damages, including to 95 different factories, from labor demonstrations.

At least four people were killed in the ensuing government crackdown, and dozens injured.

Khieu Sopheak, a spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, said there are no plans yet to file suit against the opposition.

“But I believe this report is in part evidence for the court to determine all activities of the [Cambodia National Rescue Party], which has led illegal demonstrations in the post-election,” he said. “Without their incitement, violence also could not have occurred.”

Mu Sochua, a Rescue Party leader, said the accusations were “groundless and biased.” She accused the government of “waging violence” and called for an independent inquiry into the January crackdowns.

http://www.voacambodia.com/content/report-claims-75-million-in-damages-from-january-demonstrations/1883036.html