“We are concerned about the use of criminal law to target free speech, both offline and online,” Rhona Smith, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, and David Kaye, Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, said in a statement.
“Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. This right is one of the essential foundations for a democratic and just society. Restrictions on freedom of expression must be limited and strictly defined and statements of support for political leaders do not fall within such permitted limitations.”
Smith and Kaye noted that in recent weeks some 140 members of the banned opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) have been questioned, summoned or detained for gathering or expressing support for party leaders Kem Sokha, who is under house arrest on charges of treason, and Sam Rainsy, who is living in self-imposed exile to avoid what he says are a string of politically motivated convictions.