Phnom Penh, 18 October 2013 – The Cambodian Human Rights and Development Association (ADHOC) condemns the violence and intimidation that was used today against people exercising their legitimate rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly at Wat Phnom this morning.
Youth, monks and community activists were calling for an investigation into the death of Mr. Mao Sok Chan, who was killed on 15 September 2013 when the authorities opened fire on the public at Phnom Penh’s Kbal Thnal overpass. Many others were injured. The authorities have yet to investigate what happened. The protesters were also demanding that the fundamental human rights of Cambodians should be respected.
Tensions were high this morning when the Daun Penh security guards prohibited protesters from gathering at Wat Phnom. Protesters and the Daun Penh security forces swapped insults before the Daun Penh security forces, together with thugs dressed in civilian clothes, used violence against the protesters. This resulted in a number of people sustaining injuries. Tep Vanny (32), one of the leaders of the Boeung Kak community, suffered minor injuries after getting punched in the head. Along with Tep Vanny, two other people sustained injuries: Ung Sothy (67), who nearly fainted after she was punched in the mouth; and Koa Narong (13) who was hit in the chest by the security guards.
ADHOC reminds the Cambodian government and the authorities to respect their national and international legal commitments regarding fundamental freedoms of expression, association and assembly under the Cambodian constitution. The Daun Penh security forces and thugs cannot be allowed to use violence against people exercising these rights. ADHOC’s monitor reiterates the right of monks to be present at the protests and to be available in Cambodia’s political process as they are Cambodian citizens. In addition, ADHOC urges the authorities investigate what happened on the Kbal Thnal overpass and bring justice to the victim’s family.
For more information or comment, please contact:
Mr. Nay Vanda, Deputy Head of Human Rights and Legal Aid Section: 012599106
Mr. Neil Loughlin, Technical Assistant: 092 648 318; loughlin.adhoc@gmail.com
