Cambodia: Opposition leader returns to politics November 15 /update 4

Event

Cambodian opposition leader Sam Rainsy, former head of the country's leading opposition party, Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), announced his return to politics on Wednesday, November 15, a day before Cambodia's Supreme Court is to rule on whether to dissolve the CNRP. Cambodian security forces are reportedly on alert to respond to potential protests against the court decision, according to the US Embassy in Phnom Penh. Heightened security measures are expected in Phnom Penh, particularly near the Supreme Court building, and traffic disruptions are expected near the Supreme Court, Royal Palace, and the riverfront area on Thursday.

Context

Rainsy resigned as the leader of CNRP in February, amid increasingly severe government legal threats targeting the party. Cambodia's Supreme Court is expected to announce their final decision regarding the dissolution of CNRP, Cambodia's main opposition party, on Thursday, November 16.

In September, Cambodian authorities filed a lawsuit seeking to dissolve the CNRP on the grounds that it was plotting to overthrow the government. On October 31, the Supreme Court rejected an appeal to release CNRP president Kem Sokha (arrested on September 3 on charges of treason and espionage), claiming his release could spark public unrest.

Inter-party tensions have plagued Cambodia over the past several years, exacerbating political instability in the country. Prime Minister Hun Sen has been accused of seeking to extend his three-decade rule in spite of the growing popularity of the political opposition, as part of a political crackdown aimed at silencing critics in the opposition, media, and civil society. In early September, the US Embassy in Phnom Penh advised foreigners in the country to exercise caution amid rising political tensions and a growing anti-Western sentiment.

Advice

Individuals present in Cambodia, and particularly those in Phnom Penh, are advised to closely monitor local media for developments to the situation and to avoid all protests, demonstrations, and large crowds due to the risk of violence.