Cambodia: Candlelight Party indefinitely postpones planned protest in Phnom Penh as of June 5 /update 1

Event

Cambodia's main opposition, the Candlelight Party, has indefinitely postponed a planned rally in Freedom Park, Phnom Penh, as of June 5. The action was initially scheduled June 3-4 to protest the upholding of its disqualification from the upcoming July 23 general elections. Organizers had claimed over 10,000 supporters would participate, despite Prime Minister Hun Sen's warning of a crackdown on any unauthorized gatherings.

Attendees will likely defy any official ban and/or security restrictions on attendance and time limits for future events, heightening the risk of clashes. Authorities will almost certainly increase security around gathering venues and access routes for street marches or vehicle processions. Localized traffic and business disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any protests that occur.

Advice

Monitor trusted media sources for fresh protest plans, as organizers may not announce them in advance. Avoid any protests that materialize and navigating roadblocks due to possible violence. Plan for possible road closures near any rally and seek alternative routes to circumvent the area. If clashes occur nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a nongovernment building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.