Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s former opposition co-leader, Kem Sokha, has denied any and all attachments with new parties or political movements. He took to Facebook on Sunday to say that he had seen some political figures still using his name to garner support. He has denied any involvement or association. EAC News contacted one of Kem Sokha’s lawyer, Chan Cheng, who told us there’d be no further comment.

Sokha posted on Sunday: “I see some people, group, party or political movement are still using my name and picture to involve with their activity for interest and ambition. So, I confirm to the public my previous declaration made by my lawyer”. That declaration was made by Kem Sokha’s lawyer on 7 February 2021, asking all individuals and groups wanting to be in politics or creating new political parties or movements to stop bringing up Sokha’s name.

Kem Sokha was arrested on 3 September 2017 at his home in Phnom Penh and charged with “conspiracy with foreign powers”. Last November his bail restrictions were eased, still banning him from politics for five years, but allowing him to travel freely within the country although he is still not allowed to travel abroad.

The Cambodian Institute for Democracy’s Dr. Pa Chanroeun, says what Sokha is declaring now represents the best choice for him in order to prevent any more charges from the court, having been banned from politics for five years. He says the statement is designed to protect him from any legal exposure.

Last month, Sokha’s cabinet director, Muth Chantha, took aim at Sam Rainsy. He said the exiled former co-leader of the CNRP is the real power behind the newly-formed “National Heart Party” which was approved by the Ministry of Interior back in June and has also been using Facebook and Sokha’s name to drum up support. Chantha noted at the time that Sokha remains adamant he’s staying out of politics and wants others to stop using his name.