Phnom Penh (FN), March 30 - The Phnom Penh Municipal Court sentenced Sam Rainsy, former leader of Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) Thursday morning.

His sentence calls for 20 months of imprisonment, $2,500 fine and 100 riel ($0.025) compensation stemming from a defamation case where he accused the government of conspiring to murder a popular, political analyst, Kem Ley.

Sam Rainsy was found guilty of defamation and public incitement with intent to commit serious chaos under articles 305, 494 and 495 of the Cambodian Criminal Code.

The government has considered Sam Rainsy's allegations that Prime Minister Hun Sen ordered the murder of Kem Ley. This accusation will not only seriously affect the honor and dignity of the premier, but could possibly anger citizens, which could lead to chaos.

In response to Rainsy’s accusations without proper grounds, the premier’s lawyer suggested the court sentence Sam Rainsy and demanded compensation of only 100 riel.
=FRESH NEWS