PHNOM PENH (AFP) –  Cambodian opposition leader in exile Sam Rainsy was on Friday pardoned by the king, according to a royal decree seen by AFP, clearing the way for his return ahead of national elections.

The pardon was requested by Prime Minister Hun Sen "in the spirit of reconciliation", a government official told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that Rainsy had "no right" to run as a candidate in the July 28 polls.