In fear of Hun Sen's wrath

Cambodian activist currently hiding in Thailand is seeking refuge in a third country, writes Wassayos Ngamkham

- Wassayos Ngamkham

A 37-year-old Cambodian activist has gone into hiding in Thailand, fearing for his life after publicly criticising the Cambodian government and military.

Em Piseth, head of the Cambodian International Youth Network in Thailand, is wanted by Cambodian authorities after posting a video clip on social media that mocked Cambodian soldiers.

The video was based on accounts from a former soldier and close associate, who claimed that troops stationed along the Thai-Cambodian border were undernourished and ill-prepared for combat.

The post drew a sharp backlash from Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, who accused Em Piseth of spreading false information and impersonating a military officer.

Cambodian police later announced that his TikTok account had disseminated misleading content, prompting further concerns for his safety.