Blockage of Anti-Thai Protests Violated Freedom of Expression

On July 15, 2009, a demonstration was planned and led by Rong Chhun, the president of Cambodian Confederation of Unions (CCU) in participation of other 150 members to hold in front of the former National Assembly building to mark the one-year anniversary of Thai troops invading Cambodian territory near Preah Vihear temple.

Unfortunately, the ceremony was not allowed and prohibited by Phnom Penh Municipal authority for the reason that it might wreak havoc on traffic in the capital.

City Hall on Wednesday sent a letter, signed by Phnom Penh Governor Kep Chuktema, to the CCU informing it that its plans to stage a public protest against Thailand's military actions along the border near Preah Vihear temple had not been approved.

Council of Ministers spokesman Phay Siphan said Thursday that the government did not want the demonstrators to wreak havoc on traffic in the capital, adding that the intention was not for the government to prevent members of the CCU from expressing their opinions.

Phay Siphan said the international community supported Cambodia in the Preah Vihear dispute, which has erupted in violence several times since UNESCO approved Cambodia's application to list the temple as a World Heritage site last July.

Anyhow, it was seen that the prohibition of the government was the act against freedom of expression; which states in the Constitutional Law of Cambodia. This also reflected the backward of democracy of the country.