In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the Cambodian opposition community, a former Cambodian lawmaker Lim Kimya was shot dead in a crowded area of Bangkok on 7 January 2024. The 74-year-old, who was a dual citizen of Cambodia and France, recently crossed into Thailand from Cambodia and was targeted by an alleged hitman in broad daylight.
Details of the Attack
According to Thai authorities, Lim arrived in Bangkok from Siem Reap by bus, travelling alongside his wife and brother. He was attacked shortly after reaching the city. Eyewitnesses reported hearing three gunshots. Sadly, Lim was found lying on his back, despite attempts to revive him, surrounded by a pool of blood and a small suitcase.
Arrest of Suspect
- Suspect Identified: A 41-year-old motorcycle taxi driver has been named as the suspect in Lim’s murder, and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.
- Motivations Under Investigation: Police are currently investigating the motive behind the killing, although early indications suggest it was a professional hit.
Political Implications
The Cambodian opposition has labelled the killing a politically motivated assassination. Sam Rainsy, a prominent opposition figure, accused former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen of orchestrating the murder, claiming it reflects the ongoing suppression of dissent under the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP).
Lim was a member of the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), which faced severe crackdowns from the government. Rainsy stated, “Hun Sen’s hand can be seen behind the assassination… just as it has been behind countless political crimes in Cambodia that go unpunished.” This sentiment echoes broader concerns about the safety of opposition members living in exile.
Authorities’ Response
The Cambodian government has denied any involvement in the assassination. Government spokesperson Pen Bona remarked that the killing occurred on Thai soil and thus falls under Thai jurisdiction. Human Rights Watch has called for a prompt and thorough investigation, highlighting that incidents like this make political activism perilous for Cambodians in Thailand.
International Reaction
The foreign ministries of both Cambodia and France have yet to comment significantly, keeping the focus on local authorities’ actions. Meanwhile, rights organisations continue to push for accountability and justice for Lim, who had been living in the shadows of political persecution.
As this situation unfolds, it raises important questions about the safety of political activists in the region—will Bangkok continue to remain a refuge, or is it becoming a target?