A woman’s body lies sprawled on the ground, her eyes still open in bewilderment. She was one of 20 people killed after four grenades were lobbed into the crowd at a political rally in 1997. More than 100 others were wounded. Opposition leader Sam Rainsy, who was leading the rally, believes that the attack was organised by the government. “The soldiers opened their ranks and let the grenade attackers run.” Eyewitnesses claim that soldiers threatened bystanders who wanted to pursue the attackers. No one was ever arrested. Six years on, opposing the government is still a risky business. In the build up to the election at least 17 political opponents were murdered. “Hun Sen wins all the time because no one dares to be against him,” comments Princess Vacheahra, half sister of the king. Journalists who refuse to toe party lines are also vulnerable. Keo Sophorn, editor of the Cambodian paper ‘The Independent Voice’ was forced to seek asylum in Australia after receiving numerous death threats. Two fellow editors have been killed in recent years. Again, nobody was ever arrested for their murders. It seems that the government is determined to cling on to power at any cost.

Produced by SBS Australia.