Award-winning Cambodian journalist released on bail after apologizing for “harmful” posts

Award-winning Cambodian journalist Mech Dara has been released on bail after being arrested earlier this month on charges of inciting social unrest, his lawyer said on Thursday.

He was arrested on October 1 after sharing posts about a quarry on social media.

Dara’s lawyer, Duch Piseth, confirmed his release and another journalist confirmed that Dara briefly spoke to reporters outside the Kandal provincial prison before leaving in a vehicle.

Earlier this month, the Phnom Penh Municipal Court said the journalist, who worked for local and international media, posted “provocative” and “false” news and images about a quarry on a sacred mountain.

On Wednesday, Cambodia’s information minister shared a video of Dara’s apology. He was seen wearing prison uniform.

“In all the messages I posted, I conveyed false information that impacted the country’s leaders and reputation. I sincerely apologize for my mistakes and promise not to share such harmful content again,” Dara said in the video.

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