PHNOM PENH —
A detained former opposition activist has died after being released from jail sparking criticism over the government’s treatment of dissidents.
Yea Thong, a motorbike dealer and active supporter of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, was detained in 2015 and sentenced to seven years in prison along with eight other CNRP activists for taking part in a protest in July 2014.
He was released in August and died on February 14 of osteoporosis, leaving behind his wife and three children. He was 45.
Om Sam An, a former CNRP lawmaker who shared a cell with Thong, said the activist had experienced severe back pain during his incarceration and had been denied medical care.