After the violence against the monks, many are finding it hard to respond. Any statement could be accused of supporting partisan politics. Although some say that monks should have the right to express their opinions, to vote, and to speak out against injustice and corruption, others say that monks should not leave their temples during Buddhist lent. Many people were disturbed to see monks living at the sit-in in front of the National Assembly. However, the majority of monks who were involved in the peace walks stated they have not been involved in politics but have been praying for peace and non-violence only.
All monks seem to be condemned by the authorities.
Some say that the authorities are afraid of the monks, that they are public enemy number one. There were images in the international press of police savagely attacking monks. When Cambodian people see these pictures they are shocked. Violence against monks has not occurred in Cambodia since the KR regime. It is like beating your mother and father.