Cambodia activists urge release of unionist accused of inciting unrest

Supporters of Rong Chhun, leader of the Cambodian Confederation of Unions hold placards during a protest in front of Phnom Penh municipal court on Aug1, 2020. Scores of activist groups in Cambodia urged the government on Monday (Aug 3) to release and drop charges against Rong. - AFP

PHNOM PENH, Aug 3 (Reuters): Scores of activist groups in Cambodia urged the government on Monday to release and drop charges against a prominent union leader, who was arrested last week and accused of falsely claiming that land had been ceded to neighbouring Vietnam.

Rong Chhun, a border activist and top trade union leader, was arrested on Friday and charged with incitement to commit a felony or cause social unrest, which could see him jailed for two years if convicted.