Cambodian opposition leader Rong Chhun granted bail: Video
Cambodian opposition politician Rong Chhun was granted bail on Friday after facing questioning in court over new charges, including "incitement to disturb social stability."
The outspoken adviser to the Nation Power Party expressed gratitude for the bail decision but acknowledged the restrictions placed on his freedom, the AFP reports.
"I thank the judge who has decided to grant bail to me," Chhun told supporters. "The court has banned me from attending rallies. If I don't follow these restrictions, the court will arrest me. Although I lost some freedom, I can still meet you all."
Rong Chhun, who could face up to six years in prison if convicted, has been a frequent target of legal action by Cambodian authorities, who often use incitement charges to suppress dissent.
Before entering the Phnom Penh Municipal Court, Chhun spoke to reporters, stating he was prepared to return to prison if necessary. "It is repression and a limitation of my freedom to participate in political activities," he said.
Several dozen supporters gathered outside the court to show their solidarity, while police set up barricades, preventing journalists and demonstrators from approaching the building. Rong Chhun's legal troubles date back to 2020 when he was arrested for accusing the government of "irregularities" in the demarcation of Cambodia’s eastern border with Vietnam. He was sentenced to two years in prison in 2021 but was released after serving just three months, with the remainder of his sentence suspended.
