US Ambassador Joseph Mussomeli said Tuesday he was concerned a suit filed against the opposition leader by the foreign minister could have an affect on the general elections in July. 

Foreign Minister Hor Namhong is suing Sam Rainsy for disparaging remarks the opposition leader allegedly made at an April 17 public rally. 

“As a general principle, the United States strongly believes that defamation and disinformation should never be criminal cases,” the ambassador said after a vitamin distribution in Kampong Thom province. 

Hor Namhong dismissed questions about the suit by reporters Wednesday, asking them to let the court do its work.

If found guilty Sam Rainsy could face a fine for defamation but imprisonment for disinformation.