King Rescinds His Plan for Amnesty

King Norodom Sihanouk reversed his decision to pardon and release most of Cambodia’s 2,000 prisoners from overcrowded and dilapidated jails and said he will not allow his exiled half brother to return home. Sihanouk cited criticism from students and some politicians in withdrawing last week’s amnesty decree. The amnesty had been planned to commemorate his 74th birthday Thursday. Objections also blocked a possible amnesty for Prince Norodom Sirivudh, who was exiled to France last year for allegedly plotting to assassinate Second Prime Minister Hun Sen.