Phnom Penh City Hall yesterday refused to grant permission for a protest over the jailing of rights activists on Saturday.

In May, Beehive Social Democratic Party director Mam Sonando – who has been imprisoned three times in the past for allegedly inciting riots – declared he would lead a protest of 200 people through Freedom Park on July 9 unless four Adhoc staffers and a National Election Committee official were released.

However, City Hall administration director Mean Chanyada yesterday said no permit would be granted.

“If there is a gathering to protest and that affects the security, safety, orders and regulations, you have to take full responsibility under the law,” Chanyada said.

Sonando said he would not proceed without permission.