Why were Cambodian opposition figures charged with lese majeste?

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Cambodian Opposition Figures Charged with Lese Majeste Due to Facebook Posts

Two Cambodian opposition figures, Yim Sinorn and Hun Kosal, were charged with lese majeste and incitement to cause serious social unrest due to their Facebook posts concerning a photograph of King Norodom Sihamoni and Prime Minister Hun Sen. These charges carry potential penalties of up to five years in jail and fines of up to $2,500 if they are found guilty.
Posts Related to King and Prime Minister Photograph

The arrests and subsequent charges against Yim Sinorn and Hun Kosal stemmed from their social media activity regarding a photograph that depicted King Norodom Sihamoni and Prime Minister Hun Sen together. This photograph was taken during a torch relay ceremony for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games. While the specific content of the Facebook posts was not detailed by the court, Prime Minister Hun Sen publicly stated that the act was "insulting" and could not be tolerated.
Background of the Accused

Both Yim Sinorn and Hun Kosal are former members of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), an opposition party that was dissolved. The CNRP was banned prior to the 2018 general election, and many of its former members have faced legal repercussions, including arrests and exile, as part of what activists describe as a broader crackdown on dissent.
Cambodia's Lese Majeste Law

Cambodia's lese majeste law was enacted in 2018. Upon its adoption, human rights organizations voiced concerns that the legislation, similar to measures in neighbouring Thailand, could be utilized to suppress criticism of the government. The law prohibits insults against the monarchy, and its application in this instance highlights ongoing tensions surrounding political expression in Cambodia.

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Why were Cambodian opposition figures charged with lese majeste?

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