Phnom Penh (FN), Sep. 5 – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet responded to human rights organisations that condemned the Royal Government for using legal measures to detain a small group of extremists who attempted to incite unrest and overthrow the legitimate government on 18 August 2024.
The premier spoke on Thursday (Sep. 5) during a certificate presentation ceremony for nearly 2,000 law students and trainees at OCIC in Phnom Penh.
Samdech Thipadei reiterated to the human rights organisations that when these groups announced their plans for illegal activities, including the use of weapons to cause social unrest, the organisations remained silent and did not intervene. However, when the authorities used legal measures to detain these individuals, the organisations criticised the government.
Prime Minister Hun Manet underlined that taking legal action against extremist groups is a standard practice to protect the country and its people. He noted that in the United Kingdom, thousands of protesters have been arrested, with more than 200 convicted.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, "If any human rights organisation condemns the arrest of those involved in the unrest on 18 August, I say look at the facts. There is substantial evidence showing that before 18 August, they gathered to purchase weapons and planned to burn houses with the aim of overthrowing the government, which is illegal. These organisations remained silent and did not condemn these illegal activities, but when the law was enforced, they accused us of human rights violations."
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also stated that the measures taken on 18 August were necessary to protect citizens' rights to social stability and to ensure their ability to live and work safely. During the 18 August incident, 66 people were arrested, 57 were released, and nine key figures are currently being prosecuted.
On the occasion, the premier also expressed his gratitude to officials at all levels, including ministries, institutions, local administrations, the armed forces, and especially the people who did not participate in the destructive plans orchestrated by the small group of extremists.
=FRESH NEWS
