Days-long sit-in planned by CNRP

Opposition leader Sam Rainsy yesterday told supporters in Kandal province to pack up their bed mats, pillows and rice and prepare for the long haul as he and deputy Kem Sokha outlined plans for a sit-in at Freedom Park that could drag on for days – or longer. Speaking to some 2,000 people in Ksach Kandal district – one day after the National Election Committee officially confirmed a ruling party win in July’s national election – Rainsy and Sokha called on supporters to join in nationwide demonstrations, centred in Phnom Penh’s Freedom Park, beginning on September 15 and lasting at least until the 17th. “We will [demonstrate] for days, weeks. If it is necessary to march, we will march,” Rainsy said. “Please, people, pack rice as well for when we will meet at Freedom Park.… Don’t be scared; we will meet in Phnom Penh demonstrating loudly.” ... Despite the decidedly larger time commitment, attendees at the rally promised to support the Freedom Park sit-in. ... Meanwhile, US embassy spokesman Sean McIntosh told reporters yesterday that the US was encouraging parties to negotiate, but added that though “the final results have been announced … there are still irregularities that need to be handled”. ...

Meas Sokchea and Stuart White
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/days-long-sit-planned-cnrp