Press Statement Sean McCormack, Spokesman Washington, DC December 22, 2005
Cambodia: Conviction of Sam RainsyThe United States remains concerned about the continuing deterioration of democratic principles such as free speech and expression in Cambodia. The conviction in absentia today of opposition leader Sam Rainsy on defamation charges by a Phnom Penh court is further evidence of this unfortunate trend. We call on the political leadership of the Royal Cambodian Government to allow all citizens to express their views peacefully without fear of retribution or intimidation. These rights are protected in the Cambodian Constitution as well as international human rights agreements to which Cambodia is a party.
2005/1207
Released on December 22, 2005
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