PM defends Sonando verdict

11 October 2012
The Phnom Penh Post
Beehive radio station owner / freedom of speech / Human Rights / justice system / Mam Sonando / Mam Sonando trial / Media / NGOs / Prime Minister Hun Sen / secessionist plot

Prime Minister Hun Sen yesterday lashed out at critics of the Mam Sonando verdict, saying outsiders shouldn't be seeking the release of a prisoner. Speaking to hundreds of villagers at a land title ceremony held in Chhuok district of Kampot province, Hun Sen defended the guilty verdict handed down to the radio station owner. “The verdict is against [him] because of inciting people to oppose the authorities, and [he] has to be cleared,” said Hun Sen. ... While NGOs and even foreign governments have been quick to label the case a quashing of freedom of speech, the premier took pains to set the record straight, stressing that Sonando’s verdict has nothing to do with his station. ...

http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2012101159243/National-news/pm-defends-sonando-verdict.html