Lawsuit Versus Sam Rainsy Worries Ambassador
By Chiep Mony, VOA Khmer
Original report from Phnom Penh
07 May 2008
US Ambassador Joseph Mussomeli said Tuesday he was concerned a suit
filed against the opposition leader by the foreign minister could have
an affect on the general elections in July.
Foreign Minister Hor Namhong is suing Sam Rainsy for disparaging
remarks the opposition leader allegedly made at an April 17 public
rally.
=93As a general principle, the United States strongly believes that
defamation and disinformation should never be criminal cases,=94 the
ambassador said after a vitamin distribution in Kampong Thom
province.
Hor Namhong dismissed questions about the suit by reporters Wednesday,
asking them to let the court do its work.
If found guilty Sam Rainsy could face a fine for defamation but
imprisonment for disinformation.
