PHNOM PENH: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, one of the world’s longest-serving leaders, declared on Wednesday that he would step down and pass on power to his eldest son, ending his hardline rule of almost four decades.
The former Khmer Rouge cadre has held control of the kingdom since 1985, eradicating all opposition and stifling freedom of expression. His Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) recently won a landslide victory in an election, with no meaningful opposition, paving the way for a dynastic succession to his son, Hun Manet.
In a special broadcast on state television, the 70-year-old leader expressed his gratitude to the people and announced his decision to step down as prime minister. He stated that his 45-year-old son, a four-star general, will take over as the new prime minister on August 22, leading a new government.
Controversial Elections in Cambodia
The recent election, in which the only serious challenger was disqualified on a technicality, was criticized by Western powers, including the United States and the European Union, as neither free nor fair. UN’s human rights chief, Volker Turk, also raised concerns about restrictions and reprisals faced by opposition parties and media, hampering free elections in Cambodia.
Hun Sen’s decision to step down does not mean he will relinquish all power. He will become the president of the senate and act as head of state when the king is overseas, ensuring he maintains significant influence even after leaving the prime minister’s post.
Throughout his rule, Cambodia has grown closer to China, benefiting from substantial Chinese investment and infrastructure projects. However, this has led to problems, including environmental destruction and corruption concerns. Cambodia ranks low in Transparency International’s corruption perception index, with rights groups accusing Hun Sen of using the legal system to suppress opposition to his rule.
Critics fear that the dynastic succession could perpetuate the same hardline policies and curtail democratic principles in the country. Despite his resignation, Hun Sen’s legacy is likely to shape the direction of his son’s administration.
