Sonando’s Lawyer Rejects Claims for Detention
In a 10-page filing, the lawyer for independent radio station owner Mam Sonando yesterday urged the Phnom Penh Municipal Court to release his 71-year-old client on bail, arguing that he is no flight risk and the legal arguments for keeping him are flimsy. … But while the charges have been heavily criticized and the case against Mr. Sonando appears weak, he can legally be held in pre-trial detention for up to 18 months. Mr. Sam Oeun refused to comment on the prospects of his request, but said there were ample legal reasons why his client should be permitted release on bail. “First – the crime. What happened in Broma [village] is ended and under control; the police should already have their evidence from the witnesses,” he said. …
