PHNOM PENH: The former leader of a Cambodian opposition party imprisoned over his criticisms of the government walked free on Wednesday (Feb 25) after receiving a royal pardon, a party official said.
Sun Chanthy, the founder of the Nation Power Party, was jailed in December 2024 for two years for inciting social disorder, a charge authorities frequently deploy against government critics.
His case related to his social media posts, including a video clip in which he criticises the Cambodian government during a meeting with supporters in Japan.
Sun Chanthy was released from a prison in Pursat province on Wednesday morning after King Norodom Sihamoni issued a pardon, Nation Power Party adviser Rong Chhun told AFP.
"His wife picked him up from the prison," Rong Chhun said, welcoming his release.
The king traditionally issues royal pardons at the government's request.
Rong Chhun said no reason was given for Sun Chanthy's early release.
A long-time opposition figure and labour activist, Rong Chhun is himself appealing a four-year prison sentence handed down last year on a similar incitement charge.
The case was brought against him in 2024 after he met victims of land disputes and commented on Prime Minister Hun Manet's visit to an area bordering Vietnam.
Rong Chhun on Wednesday called for the charge against him to be dropped, and for the release of other jailed activists.
Rights groups have long accused Cambodia's government of using legal cases as a tactic to silence opposition voices and legitimate political dissent.
Hun Manet assumed power in 2023 after his father, Hun Sen, stepped down following nearly four decades of rule. - AFP
