Lawyers Argue Kem Sokha has Always Respected the Law
Kem Sokha, pictured in a blue scarf and white t-shirt, was reprimanded by the court on July 21 for making public appearances. Photo: Sokha's Facebook page.
- Phoung Vantha
- July 21, 2020 8:24 AM
Lawyers representing the former opposition leader Kem Sokha on Tuesday responded to a warning from the court about Sokha’s recent public appearances.
PHNOM PENH--Kem Sokha’s lawyers have on Tuesday (July 21) responded to the letter issued by the court warning Sokha against making further public appearances. Chan Chen, one of Sokha’s lawyers, described the letter as a warning to the former leader of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP).
“This letter clearly confirmed to the public, both nationally and internationally, that even the law does not prohibit his right to travel in the country and to meet people who love and miss him, as such he has received a reminder or rather an immediate warning,” he said.
Meng Sopheary, another lawyer representing the former opposition leader, said that her client has always respected the law. “He knows exactly what rights he has and what he does not have,” she said.
This comes after Sokha was photographed attending various religious ceremonies across Cambodia while accompanied by family and friends. This prompted a warning letter to be issued by the court.
Judge Koy Sao, president of the trial chamber on Kem Sokha's case and author of the warning letter, claimed that the council of judges had received reports from the judicial police regarding Sokha's activities. They claim that while in the provinces, Sokha met with the people and held gatherings with supporters.
“The council of judges noted that these actions may go beyond borders or lead to a violation of the obligations of the judicial restrictions imposed on the defendant,” the letter read.
The judge said that Sokha must be respectful of his obligations under court supervision and to adhere to the court's obligations. In particular the judge warned that Sokha must not engage in any political activity.
On Nov. 10, 2019, the investigating judge of the Phnom Penh Municipal Court canceled a two-point ban on Sokha's activities and lifted restrictions that prevented him from leaving his house. He remains banned from meeting with any former CNRP officials or foreigners involved in his court case.
It was almost three years since Sokha has traveled within Cambodia, following his arrest on Sept. 3, 2017. He was jailed in Trapaing Phlong Prison for one year before being transferred to house arrest in 2018.
