Sar Kim LaMouth Proves an Amenable Witness as Examination Proceeds Smoothly
The trial of Case 002 at the Extraordinary Chambers of the Courts of Cambodia (“ECCC”) against accused Nuon Chea, Ieng Sary, and Khieu Samphan resumed hearing witness Sar Kim LaMouth’s testimony Thursday, May 31, 2012, marking the end of an exhausting week of examination.
Around 200 villagers were present in the public gallery. Hailing from Siem Reap province, they had traveled by bus through the night to be present at the commencement of proceedings. Most of the villagers came as families, unlike the previous day when only adults attended. Nevertheless, everyone present displayed the same fascination with the Chamber. Nuon Chea appeared stoic, hidden behind his favorite sunglasses. Khieu Samphan was also present; dressed in his usual white button-down shirt and tan jacket, he presented a stark contrast to Nuon Chea’s dark attire.
Ieng Sary, as expected, was absent from the courtroom. Due to health issues preventing the accused from sitting in the Chamber for long periods of time, President Nonn permitted Ieng Sary to waive his right to be present in the courtroom and to participate remotely from his holding cell downstairs. Ieng Sary was still able to communicate and receive assistance from his counsel during the proceedings via audio-visual means…