Repression Increasing Chance of ‘Bursting’: Beehive Radio

Mam Sonando, director of the independent Beehive radio station. (Photo: Vannara, RFI)

Men Kimseng, VOA Khmer
Washington, DC Wednesday, 20 April 2011

“Our freedom is restricted to not criticizing the government and on sensitive issues like the borders or any subject that affects the policy of the ruling party” - Mam Sonando

The space for free expression in Cambodia is shrinking, a prominent radio director says, leading to increased discontent among the general public.

In an interview with VOA Khmer, Mam Sonando, director of the independent Beehive radio station, said it has become harder to gain listeners, as some people have become too intimidated to listen to his station.

“I find it hard to express my opinion,” he said last week. “And some authorities don’t allow people to listen to Beehive.”

Threats occur both in Phnom Penh and the rural areas, he said, because the programs he broadcasts come from civil society and political parties, on issues ranging from human rights to democracy.

The government has meanwhile refused to grant him a TV license or to have relay stations, he said.