City refuses to allow union forum to take place

The Phnom Penh city hall decided not to allow unions to organize a public forum at the public park located in front of Wat Botum Pagoda planned for Sunday 25 July 2010. The reason for the refusal was explained by the city that the location is too close to Hun Xen’s house and the location is where protesters usually meet to protest against land disputes etc… Furthermore, the refusal was made to avoid affecting the security, safety and public order in the city of Phnom Penh. However, the city indicated that the unions can hold its forum at their headquarters or at a private location. The unions still insist on holding its forum at this public park as it has planned. Under this condition, the city hall will ask the ministry of Interior to make the final decision.