7-8-2023 (PHNOM PENH) Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihamoni is set to appoint Hun Manet as the country’s new Prime Minister, following the announcement by his father, Hun Sen, that he is stepping down after nearly four decades in power. Hun Sen, one of the world’s longest-serving leaders, recently won a landslide victory in the July election. However, the election was marred by controversy as the opposition challenger, Candlelight Party, was disqualified from running, resulting in the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) winning the majority of seats in the lower house.
The official appointment of Hun Manet, a four-star general and the eldest son of Hun Sen, will be made through a royal decree. However, in order to assume the position officially, Hun Manet and his new cabinet must win a confidence vote in parliament scheduled for August 22.
The incoming government is expected to bring in a new generation of ministers, with some taking over positions previously held by their fathers. Despite his resignation, Hun Sen has assured Cambodians that he will continue to exert influence over the country’s politics. Since coming to power in 1985, Hun Sen has played a significant role in modernizing Cambodia after years of civil war and genocide. However, his rule has been criticized for environmental destruction, corruption, and the suppression of political opponents.
The international community, including the United States, United Nations, and the European Union, has condemned the recent election, citing it as neither free nor fair. Hun Sen has dismissed these allegations and stated that his decision to pass on power to his son is aimed at maintaining stability and avoiding potential conflict in the event of his death.
Hun Manet, who has been groomed for political leadership over the years, remains untested in the political arena. Despite his education in England and the United States, there are few expectations that he will deviate from his father’s hardline approach. As a member of the ruling party’s powerful permanent committee, Hun Manet has been serving as the commander of the Royal Cambodian Army since 2018. He has also engaged with world leaders, including President Xi Jinping of China, Cambodia’s main ally and benefactor.
After stepping down as Prime Minister, Hun Sen will assume the role of President of the Senate early next year and act as head of state during the king’s overseas visits.
The appointment of Hun Manet as Cambodia’s new Prime Minister marks a significant turning point in the country’s political landscape. As the next generation of leadership takes charge, all eyes will be on Hun Manet and the direction he chooses for Cambodia’s future.
