(AP photo)PHNOM PENH - Executive members of Cambodia's beleaguered opposition party on Sunday accepted the resignation of Sam Rainsy, its charismatic leader, and named his deputy, Kem Sokha, acting chief until a party congress can be held. Sam Rainsy has stayed abroad to avoid a two-year prison term on a defamation conviction he had believed was covered by a pardon. Kem Sokha has also been a target, as have political and social activists. The opposition CNRP hopes to building on its surprisingly strong showing in the 2013 general election. Sam Rainsy already had been barred by the government from returning to Cambodia, so he had not been in a position to campaign ahead of this year's polls.

Source: Bangkok Post February 12, 2017 13:15 UTC