Phnom Penh (FN), May 23 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Sun Chanthy, President of the National Power Party (NPP), was arrested for misrepresenting the Royal Government's efforts on the National Social Assistance Program.

The premier spoke on Thursday (May 23) at the launching of “Roadmap for Global Health Coverage in Cambodia 2024-2035” at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also underlined that the legal action against Sun Chanthy is an implementation of measures to protect the legitimacy of the Royal Government. He stated that while the government supports freedom of expression, it must enforce the law against those who distort facts, make false accusations, and create social unrest.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, “Despite our efforts, some politicians relentlessly criticize the government, even abroad. However, their attacks undermine the credibility of our IDPoor card program. Criticism loses validity when millions have benefited. Are all 4.7 million beneficiaries relatives of officials? Such accusations are baseless.”

"Our policies serve all people without discrimination. Claims that only opposition members benefit are false. We've spent 20 years developing this program, now benefiting millions. This isn't about freedom of expression; spreading false information for political gain must be addressed by law,” the premier added.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet stated that the 4.7 million beneficiaries of the program are being served transparently, contrary to Sun Chanty's allegations that it favours party members or relatives of provincial governors and government officials.

Please be informed that the spokesperson of the Ministry of Justice issued a statement on the night of 9 May 2024, regarding Sun Chanthy's arrest for inciting serious social unrest. The arrest complied with a warrant issued by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court on 7 May 2024.

Sun Chanthy was arrested for allegedly inciting serious social unrest by spreading false information on social media with the intention of misleading the public.
=FRESH NEWS