During testimony at the Khmer Rouge tribunal this week, horrible memories of detention at S-21 have left survivors in tears and unable to speak, wreaking havoc on the apparent desire of the trial chamber to speed up proceedings.
During questioning on Wednesday, S-21 survivor Bou Meng started weeping on numerous occasions as he recalled the torture inflicted on him and the loss of his wife.
He explained that he was overcome with emotion as he told his story. “I could not even eat my lunch today, because I was overwhelmed, and I did not feel like eating anything.”
At one point, Trial Chamber President Nil Nonn told Mr Meng to make better use of the one day allotted for his testimony. “Please try to recompose yourself. This is a day you have been waiting for, for so long.”
During his testimony on Tuesday, fellow survivor Chum Mey broke down in tears several times “I cry every night,” he said. “Every time I hear people talk about the Khmer Rouge, it reminds me of my wife and kids. I am like a mentally ill person now.”
He was also instructed by Judge Nonn to “recompose” himself.
Before testimony began on Wednesday, civil party lawyer Silke Studzinsky, who represents both Mr Mey and Mr Meng, suggested that the court should be more sympathetic towards witnesses.
“I would like that the chamber gives information to the witness at the beginning, that if they need time to cope with their emotions, that they get this time,” Ms Studzinsky said.
Judge Nonn told her that it was the responsibility of the civil party lawyers to monitor the emotional wellbeing of their clients. He also cautioned that very long breaks should not be taken, because: “It could affect the schedule of proceedings.”
Despite their obvious emotional distress, both Mr Meng and Mr Mey said they were excited for the chance to finally tell their stories and seek justice.
“I am so delighted that now my chest seems to be lighter,” Mr Meng said. “All my statements to the lawyers and the rest—I feel much better now.”
