Confession of Thai Man Linked to Murder of Cambodian Ex-Lawmaker Lim Kimya

Ekkalak Paenoi, a Thai man, confessed to murdering Cambodian ex-lawmaker Lim Kimya. The assassination, which took place in Bangkok, has been linked to accusations against former Prime Minister Hun Sen. Cambodian authorities arrested Paenoi and facilitated his extradition to Thailand. The case highlights ongoing tensions and repression faced by Cambodian opposition figures.

A Thai national, Ekkalak Paenoi, has admitted to the murder of Lim Kimya, a former Cambodian Opposition lawmaker, confirmed police on Saturday, January 11, 2025. Mr. Paenoi confessed his guilt, stating, “I confess that I did wrong,” after being charged with premeditated murder and illegal possession of a firearm. The incident occurred on January 7, when Lim Kimya was shot by a motorcyclist upon arriving in Bangkok via bus with his French wife.

The assassination has drawn accusations from Cambodian Opposition leaders against former Prime Minister Hun Sen, suggesting he orchestrated the killing. Following the crime, Cambodian police apprehended Mr. Paenoi on January 8 and facilitated his extradition back to Thailand. Subsequently, he was transported by Thai police helicopter to Bangkok.

Senior police official Somprasong Yenthuam stated that the motive for the murder has yet to be established, urging for patience during the investigation. Thai authorities have also issued an arrest warrant for a suspected Cambodian accomplice. Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Cambodian government refuted any official links to the murder. The incident reflects the ongoing tension, as numerous Cambodian Opposition members have sought refuge in Thailand in recent years to escape repression from the Cambodian government.

Hun Sen’s nearly four-decade rule has been marked by allegations of abuse of power and suppression of dissent. Although he transferred power to his son, Hun Manet, in 2023, he remains a significant influence in Cambodian politics. France has condemned the killing, highlighting Lim Kimya’s dual nationality as a French citizen.

The assassination of Lim Kimya underscores the increasing dangers faced by Cambodian opposition figures, particularly in light of the long-standing government repression under Hun Sen’s administration. Lim Kimya was a prominent member of the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), known for its staunch opposition to the ruling government. Following Hun Sen’s departure from official power, many former politicians and activists from the CNRP have fled abroad, fearing for their safety amid ongoing threats and crackdowns on dissent in Cambodia. The international community, including France, continues to express concern over human rights violations within the country, particularly against opposition voices.

The confession of Ekkalak Paenoi in the murder of former lawmaker Lim Kimya raises serious concerns regarding the safety of Cambodian opposition figures, as accusations of government involvement circulate. This incident reflects a troubling trend of political violence and repression in Cambodia. The ongoing inquiries may shed light on the motives and potential accomplices in this high-profile case, while the international community closely monitors the developments surrounding it.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com