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Khmer Machas Srok is displayed for sale at a newsstand on Street 51. ( Photo by: Rick Valenzuela)By Vong Sokheng
The Phnom Penh Post
THE opposition-aligned newspaper run by formerly imprisoned journalist Hang Chakra resumed publishing this weekend with fresh criticism of alleged government corruption. But as World Press Freedom Day approached, observers said financial concerns could pose a greater threat than censorship to the newspaper’s immediate future.
Saturday’s edition of Khmer Machas Srok was the first since backers temporarily closed shop early last month, citing lack of funds. It was also the first issue released since publisher Hang Chakra, who was convicted last year of spreading disinformation, was freed from prison after receiving a Royal pardon ahead of Khmer New Year.
The edition featured a pair of pieces dealing with corruption allegations and press freedom. A front-page story focused on criticism from the opposition Sam Rainsy Party over allegations of improper payments from global mining giant BHP. The story suggested “high-ranking officials” may have become “rich and arrogant” after allegedly receiving payments from the company.
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