The Cambodian American Alliance, a US-based diaspora group, yesterday said it would hold a rally to urge the US Congress to pass two resolutions that would apply diplomatic pressure and economic sanctions on Cambodia over alleged rights abuses.

The group plans to rally in Washington, DC, on June 10, according to a press release.

“We’re rallying for Congress to pass a resolution demanding US Department of State impose diplomatic and economic sanctions on [Prime Minister] Hun Sen’s government until political prisoners, human rights defenders, activists are freed,” it says.

The statement also calls for a resolution to create a “Cambodia Contact group” to oversee a peaceful transfer of power in Cambodia which, according to CAA president Touch Vibol, is stipulated in the Paris Peace Agreement.

Government spokesman Phay Siphan said he was “not concerned” about the rally, adding that it would not affect the relationship between governments. He also alleged that the CAA was “related” to the Black Monday movement.