Sokha’s Treason Case Verdict Set for March
This photo shows Phnom Penh First Instance Court and Prosecution Building. Photo: Lay Sopheavotey
- By Lay Sopheavotey
- December 22, 2022 12:01 PM
PHNOM PENH – The verdict in the treason trial of former CNRP president Kem Sokha will be announced on March 3, after more than 13 hours of hearing on Dec. 21.
Kem Sokha pleaded with the court to dismiss the case so that he could continue serving the nation.
“I have no ill intentions as the prosecution alleges, I dare say in my honor,” he said, adding that video used as evidence was fake with his speech having been edited.
Kem Sokha said only he knew the meaning of the video, asking the court to consider this rather than make an unjust decision. He spoke for himself after four of his defense lawyers had spoken.
The government lawyers and prosecutors submitted an 86-page document with a conclusion and closing remarks while Kem Sokha's lawyers wrote 53 pages.
The government lawyer urged the court to find Kem Sokha guilty of treason, while Kem Sokha’s lawyers called for the charge to be dropped.
The government lawyers are also preparing to file a separate lawsuit seeking compensation from Kem Sokha.
Ky Tech, for the government, said the damages claim was for costs incurred through Kem Sokha’s actions.
Deputy prosecutor Plong Sophal asked for a warrant to be issued for Kem Sokha’s re-arrest.
In October 2022, the court decided to end the cross-examination of Kem Sokha's case. The trial has taken more than 60 hearings over more than five years.
He is accused of conspiring with foreigners to overthrow the Cambodian government, although little evidence has been shown to support this.
