AFP – A Cambodian opposition politician was found guilty of libel for criticizing local elections won by Prime Minister Hun Sen’s political party with a landslide victory.
Son Chai, deputy leader of the Sangthian Party Allegations that the National Electoral Commission sided with the Cambodian People’s Party in power. He also made claims of buying votes and intimidating voters.
The two organizations denied the allegations and separately filed a libel suit against Son Chai, a longtime ally of exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy.
The Phnom Penh court found that Son Chai was guilty of defamation and ordered him to pay $ 750,000 in compensation to the Cambodian People’s Party. and he paid the state a $ 4,250 fine.
Government critics said the verdict was an attempt to discredit Son Chai ahead of next year’s national elections. Son Chai’s lawyer told reporters that he would challenge the verdict.
“I think this case is politically motivated. They want to stop him, “the lawyer said.
After the trial on Friday morning, Son Chai said he wanted to improve the electoral system.
“Stop intimidating, stop harassing, don’t buy votes and don’t hinder the work of non-governmental political parties,” Son Chai told reporters.
Prime Minister Hun Sen’s party won a landslide victory in local elections in June. It won about 80% of the seats. about 18% of the seats
Hun Sen, one of the longest-serving leaders in the world. He has ruled Cambodia for more than 37 years and has pledged to run for the post of prime minister. for another time next year
In 2018, Hun Sen’s party won all seats in national elections.
Critics and human rights groups say they repressed dissent by imprisoning opponents and activists before the elections.