Update on Keo Phirum, CNRP MP-elect currently in pre-trial detention in Prey Sar

Keo Phirum protecting a security guard from violence by providing a human shield with his own body

Pat Keo, CNRP MP-elect Keo Phirum's son:

Hey guys,

First of all, I just wanted to say thanks for all your messages of support. It's been awesome.

Here's the latest update. My aunt has spoken to his lawyer and he says that dad is doing well, considering the environment he's in. Some of the other inmates are sympathetic to dad's party so they're making sure he's comfortable and looked after.

He has been kept separate from his other colleagues, which I'm not too surprised about. However he has access to his medicine and the "prison bank" which holds his money and grants out his daily allowance.

He wanted to pass on that he'll be fine, and to try not to worry about him too much. He also believes it has all been politically motivated (no surprises there either).

Sam Rainsy - the leader of CNRP, has recently arrived back in the country. So hopefully they will be able to negotiate something.

In the meantime, I've been in contact with MFAT and MP's in New Zealand who are pushing this up the chain. I've also contacted John Key and Murray McCully. 

Now for all those who want to help out, one thing you can do is contact the Cambodian Embassy in Canberra and let them know your feelings about what has happened. Keep it civil please.

Here's their website http://www.embassyofcambodia.org.nz/au.htm where you can find their postal address, their email address is CambodianEmbassy@ozemail.com.au. I've also created a template if you wanted to just copy and paste this, however can someone please proofread it? If anyone wants to create additional templates, please go ahead:

His Excellency Mr. Chum Sounry
The Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Canberra
5 Canterbury Crescent
Deakin
ACT 2600
Australia

Dear Ambassador Chum Sounry,

I write to protest the arrest and detention of Member of Parliament-elect Keo Phirum, Real Camerin, and all other Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) members.

I am concerned about the very serious charges which were brought against them, most notably “insurrection”. There are numerous accounts of UN and other human rights observers who were present at the protest, stating that opposition leaders were attempting to calm the protesters and stop the violence during the clashes. 

<IF YOU KNOW DAD OR MR CAMERIN (an Australian citizen), PROVIDE A BIT OF A CHARACTER REFERENCE HERE. IF NOT, DELETE THIS>.

As the Ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, you can see first-hand the value and prosperity of a democratic society, and I urge you and your government to use this instance as an opportunity to display the commitment to democracy that must and will form the foundation of your nation's progress. Please release all CNRP members in custody, and lift the ban on demonstrations and allow for the peaceful exercise of freedom of assembly.

Sincerely,