In a decision that has sent shockwaves through Cambodia’s labor movement, the Supreme Court has upheld the 2-year prison sentence of a casino strike leader who was arrested during a violent protest last year. The defendant, Seng Vong Sak, was convicted of inciting violence and obstructing public officials while leading a strike at a prominent casino in the capital city of Phnom Penh.
The strike began in April 2021 when workers at the casino launched a protest over low wages and poor working conditions. The workers, who were primarily women, accused management of exploiting them and mistreating them. As the strike escalated, tensions between the workers and security forces grew, culminating in a violent clash that resulted in injuries on both sides.
Seng Vong Sak, a prominent labor activist and leader of the strike, was subsequently arrested and charged with inciting violence and obstructing public officials. His trial was widely criticized by human rights organizations and activists, who claimed that the charges against him were politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.
Despite these criticisms, the Supreme Court has upheld the lower court’s decision, sentencing Seng Vong Sak to 2 years in prison. The ruling has sparked outrage among labor rights groups and activists, who see it as a clear message from the government that dissent will not be tolerated.
“This decision is a blatant attack on freedom of speech and assembly,” said Chak Sopheap, executive director of the Cambodian Center for Human Rights. “It sends a chilling message to anyone who dares to speak out against injustice or advocate for the rights of workers.”
The case has also raised concerns about the growing influence of the casino industry in Cambodia, which has become a major source of revenue for the government. Critics argue that the government’s close ties to the industry have led to a lack of oversight and enforcement of labor laws, allowing casinos to exploit their workers with impunity.
As Seng Vong Sak begins his prison sentence, the labor movement in Cambodia faces an uncertain future. With one of its leaders behind bars, activists fear that the government will continue to crackdown on dissent and suppress the rights of workers. Only time will tell how this latest development will shape the future of labor rights in Cambodia.
