ECCC Proceeds Through Testimony of Two Challenging Witnesses

by Kelley Dupre Andrews, JD/LLM (International Human Rights) candidate, Class of 2015, Northwestern University School of Law
— 7 Jun, 2012

The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) were busy Thursday, June 7, 2012, in Case 002 against accused Nuon Chea, Ieng Sary, and Khieu Samphan. Two witnesses testified, the elderly Sao Sarun and the Court’s reserve witness, Khoeum Ngorn, who was called into the Chamber earlier than scheduled due to the poor health of Mr. Sarun, who needed the afternoon to rest.

Each witness provided unique challenges during testimony. Mr. Sarun’s memory remained hampered as on the previous day, and very little helped to revive it. Struggling to make it through the morning session, he was unable to continue into the afternoon session and was replaced in the witness stand by Mr. Ngorn in the afternoon.

Unlike the lethargy that characterized the morning, Mr. Ngorn provided the Court and the public gallery some entertainment. President Nonn appeared amused when Mr. Ngorn continued to call him “Bang” – or “Brother” – throughout his examination, even displaying a smile at one point. Mr. Ngorn’s friendly nature was also reflected in his eagerness to answer questions. Despite efforts by the prosecution and President Nonn to temper his enthusiasm, nothing appeared to discourage his loquacious responses. The translators struggled to keep up until President Nonn adjourned Court for the day…

Cambodia Tribunal Monitor’s Trial Observer posts are written according to the personal observations and opinions of the writer and do not constitute a transcript of ECCC proceedings or the views of Cambodia Tribunal Monitor and/or its partners. Official court transcripts for the ECCC’s hearings may be accessed at the ECCC website.