A Springvale event supported by local politicians has raised more than $20,000 to support jailed environmental activists in Cambodia.
The Silver Flower event was attended by hundreds at the Cambodian Association of Victoria on Sunday 28 July.
The 10 jailed activists and their families are linked to the Mother Nature movement, which campaigns against rampant rates of deforestation, eco-destructive infrastructure projects and alleged government corruption.
They were jailed for up to eight years after being found guilty of campaigning against the state and insulting the King, under Cambodia’s ‘lese majeste laws’.
Each were sent to separate prisons, a long way from their families.
The Australian Government joined an international outcry against the sentences.
Clarinda MP Heang Meng Tak said the Khmer community showed great concern for the “unjust” sentences that were “typical of the repressive, authoritarian regime of Hun Manet”.
“Today the community came together to show their support for these embattled activists.
“We will continue to fight for their freedom, and to restore democracy to Cambodia in the future.”
The fundraiser was organised by the Cambodian Australian Federation.
CAF president Hong Lim – a former Clarinda MP – pledged not to abandon the prisoners.
“These arrests are a breach of the Cambodian Constitution and international law.”
Mr Lim and Mr Tak have been long outspoken against the Cambodian Government, and both claim to have received death threats as a result.
Also attending the fundraiser was Bou Rachana, the widow of assassinated political leader Kem Ley.
Paris Peace Accords group, the Cambodian National Rescue Party, Candlelight party members. Greater Dandenong councillors Sophie Tan and Loi Truong were also present.
