Mass trial of 130 Cambodian opposition activists branded sham by defendant

A CAMBODIAN court has begun hearing the cases of nearly 130 government critics and opponents charged with treason for taking part in non-violent political activities.

The trial, relating to political activities over the past three years, was described by one defendant as a sham.

Only 33 defendants attended yesterday’s session at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court in Cambodia’s capital, with some believed to be overseas. Most are former members or supporters of the disbanded Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP).

As the sole opposition party in parliament, it had been expected to present a strong challenge to prime minister Hun Sen’s ruling Cambodian People’s Party in the 2018 general election. But in late 2017, Hun Sen launched a sweeping crackdown on his opponents. The CNRP was forced to disband by the high court and its members were removed from parliament.

Many people believe the court acted to ensure that Hun Sen’s party won by sweeping all the seats.

Virtually all of the defendants have been charged with conspiracy to commit treason and incitement to commit a crime. Together these carry a maximum penalty of 12 years in prison, according to defence lawyers and human rights activists.

It was not immediately clear why only 33 defendants attended the court session. Ny Sokha, of the local rights group Adhoc, said that an unknown number are believed to be living abroad, including senior politicians and Cambodian labourers in neighbouring countries. Cambodian law allows trials in absentia.

Judge Ros Piseth agreed to split the defendants into two groups. The first group will have its initial hearing on January 14 and the other on March 4. The judge said he was adjourning the trial so defendants who did not yet have lawyers and declined court-appointed ones could find representation.