A Cambodian woman working as a maid in Malaysia has been deported to her homeland after posting critical comments on social media about Cambodian government leaders. The 36-year-old woman, Nuon Toeun, was arrested by Malaysian authorities following a request from the Cambodian government.
Nuon Toeun, who had been working in Malaysia for several years, was charged with incitement to commit a felony or cause social disorder and incitement to discriminate on the basis of race, religion, or nationality upon her arrival in Cambodia. If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison and a fine.
Human rights groups have condemned the practice of Southeast Asian governments assisting each other in arresting and deporting political dissidents. Organizations like Human Rights Watch and Freedom House have called for an end to such actions, citing concerns about torture, persecution, and death faced by dissidents in their home countries.
Nuon Toeun, although not a prominent activist, used social media to criticize Cambodia's leadership, including Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father Hun Sen. Her arrest came shortly after investigative reporter Mech Dara was charged with incitement for material posted online.
The Cambodian government, led by the Cambodia People's Party, has a history of silencing critics and political opponents. The opposition Cambodian National Rescue Party was dissolved in 2018, paving the way for the ruling party to win every seat in the National Assembly.
Nuon Toeun's deportation has sparked outrage among opposition leaders in exile, who view it as a violation of international law and a grave assault on human rights. The Khmer Movement for Democracy issued a statement condemning her deportation, stating that she had committed no crime except expressing her opinions.
