Phnom Penh (FN) August 27 – Cambodian politicians, analysts, land activists, and journalists were consecutively amnestied to release by Cambodian King, proposed by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Some accused the government for being pressured by the international community to release these convicts.

Fresh News, on Monday, revealed the letters addressed to the premier to request for the release by land activist Tep Vanny, former Cambodia National Rescue Party lawmaker Um Sam An, Khmer Power Party president Sourn Serey Ratha, former opposition party senior official Meach Sovannara alongside other 10 activists.

Um Sam An wrote in the letter dated on 24 August 2018, “Serving in the prisons for over years, I miss my family, my sick parents, employment, and my children’s quitting schools.”

“I request to the premier to intervene for the release of myself to reunite with my family and be a good citizen,” the letter added.

It is worth noting that Cambodian political analyst Kim Sok was released on 17 August 2018; Tep Vanny, a land rights activist and leader of Boeung Kak community was released on 20 August 2018; Two former Radio Free Asia reporters Oun Chhin, 49, and Yeang Sothearin, 35 were released on bails on 21 August 2018; President of the Khmer Power Party Sourn Serey Ratha was release on 23 August 2018; Former CNRP lawmaker Um Sam An was released on 25 August 2018.

According to Cambodian law, Prime Minister has the rights to propose for amnesty to His Majesty King and that the King will make the final decision whether to grant or not. However, the detainees shall first serve for two-third of the imprisonment term.

Amnesty is normally practiced during three major festivals in Cambodia: Khmer New Year, Water Festival and Buddha Day – Visakha Bochea.
=FRESH NEWS