Cambodian opposition leader arrives in Malaysia

(9 Nov 2019) Cambodia's exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy landed in Malaysia on Saturday, saying he's determined to return to his homeland despite strong attempts by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen's government to thwart him.
Rainsy told reporters on his arrival in Kuala Lumpur that he has been invited to Malaysia's parliament Tuesday as part of a private visit, an indication that he'll miss a self-imposed deadline to return by Saturday, Cambodia's Independence Day.
He refused to disclose his plans, but said "I will go back home, it is my right, it is my duty."
He said the opposition was"on the right track" and urged his supporters to "keep up the hope."
"We will win," he declared.
Rainsy and fellow members of the banned Cambodia National Rescue Party had publicly said they planned to return to their homeland on Saturday, Cambodia's Independence Day, to end the authoritarian rule of Hun Sen and restore democracy.
Hun Sen's government has vigorously opposed their return and declared they would be arrested immediately if they made it onto Cambodian soil.
On Thursday Rainsy was blocked by Thai Airways from boarding a flight from Paris, where he lives in exile, to Bangkok.
Malaysia earlier also hindered the free movement of Cambodian opposition politicians, stopping two party members from flying to Thailand and temporarily detaining Cambodia National Rescue Party Vice President Mu Sochua when she arrived late Wednesday night.
Many human rights activists criticized ASEAN countries for attempting to block Sam Rainsy and his colleagues.

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