One of Cambodia’s two senior monks has called on all monks to remain outside the political fray and away from a sit-in being staged by opposition politicians.
The CPP-aligned Venerable Non Gnet issued a statement Wednesday ordering monks to “be calm” and avoid demonstrations.
“We, laypersons and Buddhist people, must not poke our hands in the job of competent authorities,” Non Gnet stated, citing both Buddhist beliefs and the Law on Political Parties that states political parties are not allowed to use religious groups for political purposes.
Monks have been frequently spotted in attendance at the sit-in being staged next to the National Assembly. Several participated in a prayer ceremony with party presidents Sam Rainsy and Prince Norodom Ranariddh Wednesday morning, and one stood on the stage Wednesday evening and appealed for donations of food and rice for protesters.
