Cambodia Marks Khmer Rouge Anniversary, Stresses Justice and Reconciliation

PHNOM PENH, April 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s information minister on Friday marked the 51st anniversary of the Khmer Rouge’s rise to power, calling remembrance of the regime’s atrocities vital to safeguarding peace and preventing future crimes.

Neth Pheaktra described April 17, 1975, as the start of one of the darkest chapters in the nation’s history, when millions died and families were torn apart. Survivors endured torture, starvation and lack of medical care, leaving lasting scars.

He highlighted January 7, 1979, as a turning point, when forces led by the Cambodian United Front for National Salvation, backed by Vietnamese troops, toppled the regime.

He credited Hun Sen’s “win-win policy” with dismantling the Khmer Rouge’s remaining structures and securing lasting peace.

Pheaktra also underscored the role of the UN-backed Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), which convicted senior leaders Nuon Chea and Khieu Samphan of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Both were sentenced to life imprisonment, with Khieu Samphan, now in his 90s, the only surviving senior figure still serving his term.

The minister said remembrance is essential to building a future free from genocide, stressing Cambodia’s commitment to justice, reconciliation and peace.