Mr. Hang Chakra talked to the press before his arrest.

Mr. Hang Chakra talked to the press before his arrest.

Source: Khmer Sthapana newspaper


The Cambodian Centre for Independent Media (CCIM) and the Association of Democratic Khmer Journalists are launching an appeal for the support of the jailed editor, Mr. Hang Chakra, who was sentenced to jail term for publishing a series of articles about corruption by officials working under Deputy PM Sok An.

The groups were asking for financial, material and food supports for the jailed editor's family as well as to pay for the 9 million riels ($2,500) fines imposed by the court.

Mr. Sok Sovan, president of the Association of Democratic Khmer Journalists, said Mr. Hang Chakra fell sick sometimes while in jail and some of the donations will be used to purchase medicines for his illness. Parts of the donations will be used to pay the 9 million riles fines and to support his children who, without him, have no other sources of incomes to survive.

Mr. Sok Sovan said his association is making an effort to seek an intervention from the government for Mr. Hang Chakra's release.

However, Mr. Phay Siphan, spokesman for Deputy PM Sok An, the plaintiff against Mr. Hang Chakra, said the case has gone out of the plaintiff's hands. It now rests with the court, he said.

Mr. Hang Chakra had instructed his lawyer to lodge an appeal against his sentence, but few hope his appeal will be successful.

Donations can be made at CCIM Office at: No. 14A, Street 392, Boeng Keng Korng I, Khan Chamkar Morn, Phnom Penh or call 090 580 130.

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