Phnom Penh, 22 Aug, 2023 (GNP): Cambodia witnessed a significant moment in its political history as the national assembly officially elected Hun Manet as the country’s new Prime Minister. Hun Manet, the eldest son of outgoing premier Hun Sen, was chosen by the vote of all 123 members present in the lower house of parliament. This transition of power has drawn comparisons to dynastic leadership models seen in other parts of the world.
Hun Manet, 45 years old and a four-star general in Cambodia’s military, expressed his appreciation for the trust bestowed upon him during his acceptance speech before lawmakers. “Today is a very important, historical day for the Kingdom of Cambodia,” he remarked.
The move comes after the widely observed national elections last month, in which the ruling Cambodian People’s Party secured a significant majority of seats. Hun Sen’s son, Hun Manet, is now officially the Prime Minister, but it’s evident that Hun Sen will maintain a central role in the country’s political landscape, symbolically and literally.
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While Hun Sen reassured that he would not interfere with his son’s government, critics and political analysts remain skeptical about a genuine shift in power dynamics. “In reality, Hun Sen will continue to pull the strings,” said exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy, highlighting the potential for continued influence behind the scenes.
Despite the transition, Hun Sen confirmed his intention to remain actively involved in politics, taking on the role of Senate President and other positions for the foreseeable future. This move shows the nuanced nature of the power transition in Cambodia.
Observers have noted that although Hun Manet now holds the title of Prime Minister, the real authority remains with Hun Sen. It is anticipated that a true shift in power will occur only when Hun Sen is no longer present.
Cambodians’ perceptions of the transition vary, with limited information about Hun Manet and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Analysts agree that little immediate change is expected in the political landscape, and repression may persist to ensure stability during this transition phase.
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While some acknowledge the significance of this transition, others express concerns about Hun Manet’s elevation to the top job without a proven track record in Cambodian politics. The challenges he faces are numerous, including economic issues, environmental concerns, and the need to balance the interests of various stakeholders.
The legacy of the outgoing premier and the potential impact of his son’s leadership will undoubtedly shape Cambodia’s trajectory in the years to come.