Mam Sonando’s ‘Secession’ Trial Focuses on Absent Suspect

The trial of independent radio owner Mam Sonando continued for a second day at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court yesterday, though most of the testimony centered around the fellow alleged secession leader Bun Ratha, who remains at large. Along with eight others, Mr. Sonando and Mr. Ratha stand accused in an attempt to break away from government control, charges they both deny. … But the most of the day’s testimony focused on the absent Mr. Ratha, who has emerged as the central figure in the alleged secessionist plot, according to the narrative presented by the prosecution. …