PHNOM PENH: The Phnom Penh Capital Administration has issued a press release dismissing allegations made by NagaWorld protestors regarding irregularities in administrative measures made against them. These allegations include being quarantined outside quarantine center rooms, the use of double standards in the implementation of health measures and sexual harassment of protestors.
All allegations made by protestors have been dismissed by the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration in a press release and two notices released on Thursday night. The administration stated in its letter that protestors were sent to a quarantine center due to concerns about the spread of Covid-19 within the local community.
The letter wrote, "Regarding the invitation of protesters to a Quarantine Center in Phnom Penh from 21-24 February 2022, the medical team has found a series of positive cases among protesters. This proves that the protesters did not do the right thing according to doctor's instructions. Therefore, the authorities must take continuous action to ensure that all the protesters do not test positive for Covid-19 before allowing them to gather in public places, in accordance with the law on peaceful demonstrations and other health measures that have been put in place.”
The Phnom Penh Municipal Administration has expressed outrage after receiving reports alleging that authorities have used violence and sexual harassed female protesters.
The administration asked, "Is it possible that authorities can commit such immoral acts in front of many people, business people, and travelers in the city who have mobile phone cameras, as well as with other authorities performing their duties in place?” The administration added that such cases must have clear evidence to justify taking action against individuals who have committed wrongdoings, in order to be held accountable before the law. They further call on all journalists and issuers to stop publishing information which they say is not true.
Regarding the measures taken against the protesters, the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration has decided to take legal action and place fines on protesters who are stubborn and violate the law related to the prevention of communicable diseases. So far, at least 54 protesters have been transferred to a Phnom Penh quarantine center.
The administration has further stated that there are currently three protesters who have been fined 1 million riel, or roughly $250 dollars, each in accordance with the law on health measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and other deadly and dangerous infectious diseases. They state that the same measures will be taken against other protesters who are found guilty.
