Tuesday, 19 August 2008

Anxious for his life, Dam Sith seeks refuge in the US

Cambodge Soir
19-08-2008

The editor in chief of Moneakseka Khmer left Cambodia for the US in fear for his life.

“Dam Sith left the country because his life is threatened” declared Mu Sochua, the deputy general secretary of the Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) in the Mekong Times.

Son Chhay, SRP MP stated that Dam Sith obtained his US visa before the general elections, following a SRP application.

The journalist, who failed to be elected on the SRP list in the last general election, was jailed from June 8 to 15 on charges of defamation and spreading false news in the Sam Rainsy - Hor Nam Hong, Minister of Foreign Affaires dispute.

The chief of diplomacy, who was confronted with accusations related to his Khmer Rouge past, withdrew the complaint against Dam Sith but upheld that against Sam Rainsy.

Cambodge Soir Hebdo interviewed Dam Sith when he was released. He told of his concern for his safety and that of the other journalists working for Moneakseka Khmer.

On July 11, Khim Sambor also a journalist working for Moneakseka Khmer, and his son were shot dead by unidentified men.

Despite the government’s agreement to accept assistance from the FBI in the investigation, the murderers still remain at large.

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