As a result of the Musharraf government's ineffectualness in contending with radical Islamic forces in the country, in the past two years the Taliban has asserted its authority over the Federally Administered Tribal Areas bordering Afghanistan.
Though the missive was not signed by Ung Huot -- interpreted by some as a ruse, by others as his ineffectualness in the partnership with Hun Sen -- Sihanouk acquiesced and issued a pardon, one that presumably covered the fine as well.