Labor Demonstrations Continue in Capital

About 100 riot police blocked demonstrators from submitting petitions to foreign embassies on Wednesday, though in a change from recent days, no violence or clashes ensued. Protesters are demanding the release of 23 people arrested in labor demonstrations earlier this month. Wednesday’s demonstration follows violent clashes between police and supporters of Beehive Radio, who on Monday conducted their own protest against the government’s refusal to allow the station to expand its operations. Organizers said Wednesday police were not following Cambodia’s laws, which allow for freedom of assembly. (Heng Reaksmey, Phnom Penh)