Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, has affirmed that there is no power struggle between the government and the armed forces in Cambodia.
His remarks came in response to accusations made by some individuals in Bangkok, who claimed he had violated the Cambodian Constitution by appearing to command the military.
“There is no need for surprise—let alone concern—over my actions. Even as an ordinary citizen, I have the right to defend my country from those who invade it,” Samdech Techo Hun Sen wrote in a social media post this evening. “As for commanding the army, I invite you to read the Royal Message of His Majesty the King of Cambodia, which fully justifies the responsibilities I have undertaken and will continue to uphold within the military.”
He continued, “Why are you afraid of my involvement in military affairs to the point of making statements that interfere in Cambodia’s internal matters? Do not forget that I hold the rank of five-gold-star General and serve as the Head of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King—a role that includes advising the King on national issues, including matters related to the military.”
Samdech Techo Hun Sen emphasised that he has not encroached upon the responsibilities of the Prime Minister. “With more than 38 years of experience as Prime Minister, I know my boundaries. In Cambodia, there is no power struggle between the government and the army,” he stated firmly.
He also called on the Cambodian people to have confidence in his continued contributions to national defence and to the work of the Royal Government in military affairs.
His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, has issued a royal order delegating Samdech Techo Hun Sen to liaise with the Cambodian Prime Minister on matters concerning national defence and military coordination.
The royal order, issued in accordance with the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia, comes in response to what the King described as a grave violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by the Thai military.
