The Cambodian Prime Minister, Hun Sen, has said the international community should allow his government to decide the fate of two high-ranking Khmer Rouge figures who defected over the weekend.

There have been calls from international human rights groups for the two leaders, Khieu Samphan and Nuon Chea to stand trial.

But Hun Sen said this would not be in Cambodia's interests, and could mean a return to civil war.

Until recently, Hun Sen said he supported the establishment of a tribunal to try Khmer Rouge leaders The BBC Phnom Penh correspondent says ordinary Cambodians feel that top Khmer Rouge figures should be held accountable for their actions before national reconciliation can take place.