Cambodian Center for Human Rights (CCHR)

A trend toward convictions aimed at those involved in the distribution of leaflets criticising the Royal Government of Cambodia gives cause for concern.

For several years, STT has spoken out against land evictions, having most recently criticised government plans to rehabilitate a dilapidated rail link connecting Phnom Penh with Thailand.

The men are accused of distributing leaflets between 2008 and 2011 that were critical of the government for its perceived ties with Vietnam.

The ministry ordered “The Water and Fire News” and “The World News” to cease publication.

Kun Eng has voiced his opinion about the adverse effects of a local reforestation scheme and has previously publically raised the issue of local villagers seeking to sell land to third parties for personal profit to the detriment of other villagers in the area.

“Freedom parks” are designated locations where peaceful demonstrators can demonstrate on the condition of 12 hours’ notice, instead of the five days’ notice generally required; however, the number of demonstrators in “freedom parks” is limited to 200 people, while there is no limit for general demonstrations.

Leang Sokchouen was tried under a penal code that did not exist at the time of his arrest.

Tep Vanny and Non Sok Kheng were arrested following a march by Boeung Kak Lake area community members who are embroiled in a conflict over land.