Washington, D.C.—The International Republican Institute (IRI) issued the following statement in response to recent oppressive measures taken by the Cambodian government, including the arrest of opposition leader Kem Sokha on what appear to be politically motivated charges:
“IRI is deeply troubled by the recent steps taken by the Cambodian government limiting free expression and clamping down on political opposition. The recent arrest of Kem Sokha, a globally-recognized leader who has devoted his life to furthering Cambodian democracy, represents a serious step backward for a country that had made progress in recent years.
“Since 1992, IRI has worked with Cambodians from across the social and political spectrum to strengthen democracy in Cambodia through programs bolstering political parties, civil society organizations and empowering young people to build a better future. IRI has worked with all major political parties in Cambodia, including the ruling Cambodia’s People Party (CPP) and remains strictly non-partisan.”
Other statements of interest:
U.S. Department of State— “Arrest of Cambodian Opposition Leader”
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