This afternoon, eight more of the Free the 19 activists were released from detention in Prey Sar’s CC1 prison.

Three defrocked monks – Venerable Seung Hai, Venerable Khith Vannak, and Venerable Sang Kosal – and five CNRP members and supporters – Meach Sovannara, Sum Puthy, Tep Narin, Ke Khim, and Ouk Pich Samnang – were released on bail. All eight were arrested between September and November last year and face a variety of charges. The cases against all those released remain open.

The five CNRP members and supporters will be required to post bail by April 20. Meach Sovannara bail was set at 10 million riel while Sum Puthy, Tep Narin, Ke Khim, and Ouk Pich Samnang have been requested to post 3 million riel each.

Today’s bail decisions follow the release on Saturday of 10 Boeung Kak land rights activists who were granted a royal pardon having spent five months in prison for the offence of obstructing public traffic.

All 18 releases result from the latest round of political negotiations between leaders of the ruling CPP and opposition CNRP.

The last of the Free the 19 activists, Ly Seav Minh, remains in pre-trial detention facing charges of violence against the possessor of immoveable property and a potential two years in prison and $6,250 in fines. She and her family are involved in a long-running land dispute with the well-connected tycoon Khun Sear.