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Writer's pictureManushya Foundation
Jul 3

🚹 #BreakingNews đŸŒżâš–ïž #JusticeForMotherNatureActivists âœŠđŸ»


Yesterday, 10 Cambodian environmental activists faced severe sentences ranging from 6 to 8 years in prison, convicted on charges including lÚse-majesté and plotting against the government. These dedicated members of Mother Nature Cambodia were committed to protecting our planet but now endure harsh punishment.


Ly Chandaravuth (24), Long Kunthea (26), Phuon Keoraksmey (23), and Thun Ratha (32) were sentenced to 6 years each for plotting against the government. They were aggressively arrested outside the courtroom, highlighting the oppressive nature of the charges.


Yim Leanghy (35), arrested at home, received an 8-year prison term and a $2,500 fine for plotting and insulting the king. Founder Alejandro Gonzalez-Davidson, deported in 2015, and activist Sun Ratha were sentenced in absentia to 8 years in prison and fined $2,500 each for similar charges.


Pork Khoeuy, Binh Piseth, and Rai Raksa were also sentenced in absentia to 6 years for their alleged involvement in the same plot.


The trial began amidst international scrutiny on May 29, 2024, with only five brief hearings and limited access for supporters and journalists. On July 2, 2024, the Phnom Penh court delivered a shocking verdict, disregarding calls for fair trial standards and delivering harsh sentences to those who advocated against destructive practices like sand mining.


Concerns over procedural irregularities and the failure to meet international human rights standards have been widely expressed. The aggressive arrests and severe sentences are perceived as efforts to stifle environmental activism in Cambodia, prompting condemnation from global organizations such as the EU, U.N., Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International.


These activists bravely fought against environmental degradation, protecting Cambodia's natural resources from exploitation and pollution. It is unjust to criminalize their efforts for environmental justice. đŸŒ± Let's unite for #JusticeForMotherNature 🌏 #HumanRights đŸ•Šïž #EnvironmentalJustice 🌿 #Cambodia


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