HM Sihamoni Empowers Hun Sen Amid Rising Tensions with Thailand

[geovalin]

 

 

King Norodom Sihamoni has officially authorised former Prime Minister Hun Sen to coordinate Cambodia’s national defence, as tensions escalate along the country’s border with Thailand.

 

In a royal letter signed on 2 August and revealed today, the King granted Hun Sen full authority to manage matters of national defence and territorial integrity, citing “grave violations and threats” by the Thai military.

 

Hun Sen, now Senate President and President of the Supreme Privy Council, is a five-star retired general and remains one of the Kingdom’s most influential figures. The appointment allows him to work closely with his son, Prime Minister Hun Manet, in steering Cambodia’s strategic response.

 

“In light of the severe threats and violations of our territorial integrity from the Thai armed forces… I hereby delegate authority to Samdech Techo Hun Sen to engage with Prime Minister Hun Manet on all matters related to national defence,” the King wrote.

 

The royal directive reflects growing concerns over recent military incidents at the border. While specific details remain limited, officials have pointed to Thai troop movements and alleged incursions into Cambodian territory as the source of heightened alarm.

 

The King also praised the bravery of Cambodian soldiers stationed at the frontier, calling their actions “heroic,” and commended the unity of the Cambodian people in the face of foreign pressure.

 

“I wish to express profound respect and heartfelt appreciation for the heroism of our troops and the solidarity shown by the Cambodian people nationwide,” he said.

 

His Majesty further lauded the government’s efforts to defend Cambodia “on all fronts—military, diplomatic, political, and legal.”

 

The move signals a major return to national security leadership for Hun Sen, who stepped down as prime minister in 2023 after nearly four decades in power. His reappointment to a defence role underscores the seriousness of the current situation and the government’s intent to present a unified front.

 

As cross-border tensions mount, Cambodia’s leadership is now firmly anchored in a father-son partnership—determined to protect the nation’s sovereignty at all costs.

 

-2025-08-05