CNRP to try to visit jailed 23

Opposition party members will lead a delegation to the doors of Kampong Cham Correctional Centre 3 on Tuesday in the hope of visiting the 23 people imprisoned there following a violent crackdown on striking garment workers in early January.

Despite having previously been denied access to the prisoners, Cambodia National Rescue Party whip Son Chhay said yesterday that he hoped prison authorities would allow the group, which will include six senators and 10 elected MPs, to meet with the detainees. …

The Cambodian Center for Human Rights and the Cambodian Labour Organisation on Friday sent an open letter to Interior Minister Sar Kheng, appealing for him to intervene after their request to visit the detainees was turned down by the General Department of Prisons.

Prison director Kea Sovanna said yesterday that if the CNRP did not have a letter of permission, he would not allow them to visit the detainees held in Tropaing Phlong jail. …

May Titthara and Daniel Pye
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/cnrp-try-visit-jailed-23