Rong Chhun, Kem Sokha, Yeng Virak, Mam Sonando, and Pa Nguon Teang praying at Wat Ang Metrey following their release.Sakada Chun (VOA)
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
18/01/2006
Independent international organizations urge Prime Minister Hun Sen to drop criminal defamation charges against four critics of the government who were released on bail Tuesday.
Reporters Without Border says in a statement that it welcomes this decision but that these activists still have to face criminal charges against them.
National and international human rights organizations welcome the government's decision, but warn that the release has no meaning unless the charges against them are dropped.
The Cambodia Watchdog Council with 18 NGOs as members say the same thing.
Asia Human Rights Watch director Brad Adams says that people are being intimidated for their good cause and a number of people will continue their criticisms.
Opposition Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) is happy with the news and appeals to King Sihamoni to pardon its leader, Mr. Sam Rainsy and other SRP activists . Prince Norodom Ranariddh, National Assembly's president welcomes the activists release but says that they still have to face the charges.
Those released are radio journalist Mam Sonando, union leader Rong Chhun, human rights activists kem Sokha and Pa Nguon Teang of the U.S. funded Cambodian Center for Human Rights.
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