Phnom Penh: Keo Remy, the Senior Minister and Chairman of the Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC), conducted an official visit to Kandal Provincial Prison on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. The primary objective of his visit was to assess the detention conditions, human rights practices, and engage with detainees, including Khieu Samphan.

During his inspection at Kandal Provincial Prison, Keo Remy urged prison authorities and officials to exercise heightened vigilance against violence and torture. He placed particular emphasis on the critical importance of adhering to both national and international human rights standards.

Keo Remy also took the opportunity to commend the leadership and officials of Kandal Provincial Prison for their dedicated fulfillment of duties, which has led to notable improvements in detainees' living conditions. These improvements are aligned with the rights guaranteed by the law on prisons.

The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) expressed its appreciation to all prison leaders and officials for their close collaboration with the CHRC in the past. This cooperation has significantly contributed to the advancement of detainee rights and freedoms. Additionally, the CHRC provided a generous donation of two tons of medicine and rice for use within the prison.

During his visit, Chairman Keo Remy also met with detainees, including Mr. Khieu Samphan. Khieu Samphan is held in a separate building and cell, receiving care from caregivers, doctors, and prison officials attuned to his specific health needs given his advanced age.

It is worth noting that Khieu Samphan, now in his elderly years, formerly served as the head of state of Democratic Kampuchea. He stands as the sole surviving former Khmer Rouge leader involved in Case 002/02 of the Khmer Rouge tribunal and is currently serving a life sentence at Kandal Provincial Prison.