The Cambodian Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC), a coalition of 17 local human rights NGOs, welcomes the decision on March 19, 2004, by Phnom Penh Municipal Court judge Hing Thirith, to dismiss charges against two men accused of killing union leader Chea Vichea. According to information received by CHRAC, judge Hing Thirith decided to drop the charges against Born Samnang, 23, and Sok Sam Oeun, 36, who were arrested on 27 and 28 January 2004 because his investigation had not uncovered sufficient evidence that they were involved in the January 22 murder of Chea Vichea. Hing Thirith also noted irregularities in supposed confessions made in the case, and CHRAC investigation indicated major differences between witness testimony and these supposed confessions. The above judge's decision is a step towards the independence of the judiciary.

CHRAC is aware that the prosecutor in this case filed a complaint to the Court of Appeal about the decision of judge Hing Thirith. CHRAC urges the Court of Appeal to review this case as swiftly as possible in order to ensure and defend the rights of the accused, who currently remain in detention.

CHRAC appeals for an independent judiciary, and hopes that there will not be any pressure or intimidation directed against the judiciary in this case.

For more information, please contact:
▪ Dr. Kek Galabru, Chairperson of CHRAC and President of LICADHO at 012 802 506
▪ Mr. Thun Saray, President of ADHOC at 016 880 509
▪ Mr. Sok Sam Oeun, Executive Director of CDP at 012 901 199

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