National Election Committee orders Sam Rainsy to end self-imposed exile and pay his fine

Buth Reaksmey Kongkea

The National Election Committee (NEC) has ordered Sam Rainsy, the former leader of court-dissolved CNRP, to end his self-imposed exile and pay Riels 20 million ($4,876) in fine over election violations.

The NEC wants Rainsy to pay the fine at the Phnom Penh Election Secretariat or at the NEC Office (Complaints and Investigation Office, 9th floor) within 30 days after the date of receipt of this order.



Hang Puthea, Spokesman of the NEC, told Khmer Times yesterday that the NEC’s decision is based on the findings of the Phnom Penh Municipal Election Commission which found Rainsy and 37 others guilty of inciting voters to destroy or damage the ballots during the recently held July 23 National Election. 

Rainsy was fined 20 million riels by the NEC while 37 other people were fined 10 million riel each.

“The NEC fined Sam Rainsy the most because he was the top leader of the former opposition party and so hold the highest responsibility (for the offence). Despite being dissolved by the Supreme Court, the Cambodian National Rescued Party (CNRP) acted against the government and the NEC,” Puthea told Khmer Times on Sunday.

In case of non-payment of fines within the stipulated time, the NEC will carry out further procedures for claiming the fine under Article 166 of the Law on National Assembly Elections.



Puthea also said that the NEC will seek cooperation from foreign countries to bring them back to Cambodia.

The other 37 suspects include Seng Meng Rong, Sor Chandeth, Kong Saphea, Heng Danaro, Kim Sok, Chham Chhany, Mua Sochua, Long Ry, Ho Van, Eng Chhay Eang, Nuth Ramduol, Rin Rath, Kan Rithy, Chhoeuy Sovann Oudom, Neang Sokhun, Chham Sophoan, Mao Vibol, Khat Samnang, Math Vanny, Luon Savath, Aun Pov, Phorn Phanna, Thorn Sdoeung, Nou Sothea, Sadath Samatthy,  Monh Saphan, Hai Vanna, Sot Silot alias Ah Song Ha,  Heng Kimlay, Sem Sambath, Nga Roeung alias Khun Deth, Khun Varn, Seng Ratana, Sar Sokhem alias Sar Sokhom, Suong Neakpoan, Leng Sotheary, and Pen Bunthan. 

None of them could be reached for a comment yesterday.

 

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