Posted on: October 26, 2023, 06:57h.
Last updated on: October 26, 2023, 06:57h.
Despite pleas by human rights groups and others for fair and objective treatment, Cambodia has chosen to uphold the convictions and prison sentences for eight individuals associated with the Labor Rights Supported Union (LRSU) of Khmer Employees of the NagaWorld casino.
The Phnom Penh Municipal Court originally sentenced the defendants, who later appealed. Chhim Sithar, the union leader and president of the LRSU, remains incarcerated.
The NagaWorld strikes, which began peacefully, are ongoing. Despite the casino’s strong financial growth, it refuses to engage in negotiations with the workers.
Taking the Fight to the Top
Sithar received the maximum penalty of two years in prison, allegedly for disturbing the peace and violating the terms of probation. However, many believe that Cambodia is using her as an example to suppress constitutionally-protected protests.
Other members, including Chhim Sokhorn, Hay Sopheap, Kleang Soben, Sun Srey Pich, and Touch Sereymeas, received one year and six months in prison. They are currently out on probation pending their trials. Ry Sovandy and Sok Narith each received a one-year suspended sentence.
Sithar has been arbitrarily detained in a Phnom Penh prison since November 26 of last year. In response, she and at least six of her co-defendants have filed an appeal with the Supreme Court of Cambodia.
The case revolves around the actions of LRSU and its leaders, who have been advocating for labor rights within NagaWorld casino for several years. The legal proceedings have raised concerns about worker’s freedom of association and expression in Cambodia.
The decision to uphold the convictions has sparked discussions about labor rights and the judiciary system in the country. Human rights activists and organizations are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of a fair and transparent legal process.
As the case moves to the Supreme Court, the outcome of the appeal will have implications not only for the individuals involved, but also for the broader landscape of labor rights and advocacy in Cambodia. If successful, it could hold Cambodia accountable for unlawful detention and other violations of the country’s constitution.
NagaCorp Still Not Budging
In April 2021, NagaCorp, the owner of NagaWorld casino, terminated the employment of 1,329 casino workers, including numerous union members. The company claimed financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In December of the same year, LRSU members began organizing regular strikes in Phnom Penh. They are demanding the reinstatement of the dismissed employees and the protection of their labor rights. The strikes have been marred by police violence, arrests, and reports of sexual harassment against female workers.
On January 4 of the following year, Sithar was forcefully arrested by police officers during another strike organized by LRSU. She was charged with “incitement” and remained in custody until released on bail over two months later.
The situation escalated on November 26 when Sithar was arrested at Phnom Penh International Airport upon returning from a trip to Australia. She had attended the International Trade Union Confederation World Conference during her visit.
Upon her return to court, Cambodia accused Sithar of violating the terms of her probation, citing undisclosed travel restrictions. However, neither Sithar nor her legal representatives had been informed of any such restrictions prior. Their request to review the judicial order was denied.
Sithar, who had previously traveled abroad twice without incident post-bail release, was promptly placed back in jail. She is now being branded by authorities as a “danger” to peace and order.