More Disinformation Spreading on Merger of Opposition

WASHINGTON DC - Opposition officials say they are continuing to battle the spread of disinformation over the unification of the Sam Rainsy and Human Rights parties ahead of 2013 elections.

Fake letters distributed via e-mail and social media and attributed to party leaders Sam Rainsy and Kem Sokha appear to show the men in disagreement over the creation of a new opposition National Salvation Party.

However, both leaders have said they remain committed to forming the new party.

“This is a vulgar trick, a poisonous method, just as the dictator group and dishonest individuals who are attempting to divide Cambodians have always used,” Kem Sokha said. “So no Cambodian compatriots should be cheated by this group.”

Speaking to VOA Khmer from Lowell, Mass., where he is seeking political support, Kem Sokha appealed to opposition supporters to ignore the letters.

“We knew in advance that they did not want us to unite,” he said of the opposition’s political opponents. “They have two plans that we know clearly. First, they have a divisive plan. Second, preventive plans to block our movement. Because we know their plans, we have to be cautious.”