A delegation from the newly launched, reform-minded Cambodian Youth Party (CYP) is to visit 15 jailed Cambodian National Rescue Party activists in Prey Sar Prison next week.

Both parties have been keen to emphasise that the visit is not political in nature. CYP president Pich Sros, who will lead the delegation, said the visit is part of an effort to seek justice for the imprisoned activists.

However, writing on his Facebook profile from jail, Meach Sovannara, head of CNRP’s media department, suggested that the visit might be “politically motivated” and denied that he or his 14 imprisoned comrades would be meeting with Sros.

Sovannara’s line was at odds with CNRP spokesman Yem Ponhearith, who said his party is “happy to hear that CYP intends to visit our activists” and that “the CNRP does not think that CYP is doing this for political gain”.

Asked whether the visit is the start of a bid to link up with the CNRP politically, CYP president Sros said, “The wish of the Cambodian Youth Party . . . [is] to be an independent voice observing the opposition party and ruling party. We cannot join any party.”