chea sophara
Land Minister Chea Sophara and Culture Minister Phoeurng Sackona meet commune residents in Siem Reap. (Hean Rangsey/VOD)

No Relocation Plans for Preah Dak, Land Minister Tells Protesters

A protest drawing several thousand people from across Angkor Archaeological Park took an abrupt turn Friday, when the land management minister said there were no plans for a mass relocation from the park’s Preah Dak commune – days after residents said authorities had told them the opposite.

Land Minister Chea Sophara walks with officials through the Angkor area inspecting homes on Thursday. (Chea Sophara's Facebook)

New Constructions Forbidden Near Angkor: Land Minister

Land Minister Chea Sophara on Wednesday warned people living near Angkor Wat not to protest an ongoing order to demolish what his ministry has deemed illegally built structures that affect the beauty of the temple area.

Sihanoukville Casino Leaking Sewage, Activists Say

Dark discharges of sewage are being released into Sihanoukville’s Independence Beach, environmental activists say, contradicting a recent proclamation by Land Minister Chea Sophara that he had reined in polluting seaside businesses.