The Coalition of Cambodian Farmer Community (CCFC), led by Theng Savoeun, has received permission from the Ministry of Interior to resume temporary operations, pending a court decision to restore full legal rights.

The decision, announced by interior minister Sar Kheng on July 17, enables the CCFC, headquartered in Phnom Penh’s Sen Sok district, to carry on with their work until further notice.

This development is a reversal of a June resolution that suspended all CCFC’s activities.

CCFC president Theng Savoeun said on July 18 that despite the ongoing court proceedings, the association could proceed as usual.

“The issuance of this letter ensures the operation of the association, which is a necessary requirement,” he noted.

He added that the interim permission allows the CCFC to continue working while the court proceeds with the case, a process expected to last between three and six months.

Savoeun confirmed that the CCFC would continue to work towards its mission and objectives, joining forces with farmers in the agricultural sector.

“We have included plantation workers and youth in rural areas to help enhance the livelihoods of farmers and rural youth. We have taken a hopeful step forward and remain positive in continuing to assist rural farmers and contribute to our nation’s development,” he said.

Earlier in May, the Ratanakkiri Provincial Court charged Savoeun and his colleagues Nhil Pheap and Phan Hach with various offences, including “causing unrest” and “undermining public order”.

The arrests followed a staff training workshop suspected of inciting a “farmers’ revolution”.

However, by the end of May, they were released on bail after acknowledging their wrong-doing in the “farmers’ revolution” case.

After their release, a meeting took place on June 17 between them and Prime Minister Hun Sen.

The CCFC promised to abstain from political engagement or contentious activities, a commitment the premier supported.