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Cambodian opposition MPs charged with insurrection

Cambodia's opposition deputy leader Kem Sokha, center left, of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, gives a speech at a blocked main street near Phnom Penh Municipality Court in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Wednesday, July 16, 2014. Five of lawmakers from the main opposition party of Cambodia National Rescue Party appeared in the court Wednesday for being questioned that they led about a hundred of their supporters Tuesday to demonstrate in front of the park, asking authorities to open the site to the public. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) Cambodia's opposition deputy leader Kem Sokha, center left, of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, gives a speech at a blocked main street near Phnom Penh Municipality Court in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Wednesday, July 16, 2014. Five of lawmakers from the main opposition party of Cambodia National Rescue Party appeared in the court Wednesday for being questioned that they led about a hundred of their supporters Tuesday to demonstrate in front of the park, asking authorities to open the site to the public. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

By Associated Press July 16, 2014 1 min read

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) – Six opposition lawmakers in Cambodia have been charged with leading an insurrection movement after security forces prevented their followers from rallying in a public park.

Lawyers and rights activists said six leading members of the Cambodia National Rescue Party appeared in court Wednesday to be charged with leading an insurrectional movement, incitement to commit a felony and instigation to commit acts of violence. The maximum penalty if convicted on all charges would be 30 years’ imprisonment.

The government said at least 38 security personnel were injured in clashes at the park on Wednesday. The guards are civilians used by the authorities to break up protests and have a reputation for brutality. Protest leaders say the guards initiated the violence.