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Cambodia's Supreme Court to Rule on Land Activist's Defamation Appeal
Cambodia's Supreme Court will deliver its verdict on September 21 in the defamation appeal case of land activist Oup Tang, who was accused of defaming a public figure through social media posts related to a land dispute. Tang was initially convicted by the Koh Kong Provincial Court and later had her fine reduced on appeal, but has pursued a further appeal to the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court of Cambodia is scheduled to deliver its verdict on September 21 in the appeal case of land activist Oup Tang, who faces charges of defamation. Oup Tang allegedly posted the name and image of an individual on her Facebook account in August 2021, in connection with a land dispute in Koh Kong province. This action led to accusations of public defamation. The case originated from this social media post in 2021, resulting in Oup Tang being charged with "public defamation." The Koh Kong Provincial Court convicted her in April 2024 and imposed a fine of 5 million riels (approximately $1,250 USD). Dissatisfied with the ruling, Oup Tang appealed. In 2025, the Preah Sihanouk Court of Appeal upheld the provincial court's decision but reduced the fine to 200,000 riels (approximately $50 USD). However, the accused still maintains her innocence and has lodged a further appeal with the Supreme Court, asserting that she did not commit any wrongdoing as accused. During the Supreme Court hearing on September 11, over 70 residents from Koh Kong province gathered outside the courthouse to observe the proceedings, highlighting the significant public interest in the case. The Supreme Court's ruling is expected to have implications for how land disputes are handled in Cambodia, the legal accountability for online speech, and the protection of activists' rights. Source: CEN Cambodia
Original source
CEN Cambodia