Many opposition members defect to Cambodian ruling party ahead of election

Candlelight Party activists and supporters attend the party's Extraordinary Congress in Siem Reap province, Feb. 11, 2023. [VOA]

A cascade of former Cambodian opposition politicians and activists have defected to the ruling Cambodian People's Party ahead of the July 23 election amid alleged government threats and frustration with Cambodia's political situation, putting pressure on the country's remaining opposition leaders.

In May, the government disqualified its main opposition Candlelight Party from participating in the election, hastening the departure of members. Even before that, though, defections had accelerated as Prime Minister Hun Sen cracked down on dissent with lawsuits, arrests and alleged beatings in recent months.