The announcement of Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen's resignation and plan to hand over power to his son, Hun Manet, marks a significant moment in the country's political landscape, BBC reports on July 26. After almost four decades of authoritarian rule, Hun Sen's decision to step down and allow a dynastic succession signals a historic shift in leadership for the Southeast Asian nation.
Hun Sen, one of the world's longest-serving leaders, has been increasingly criticised for his crackdown on political opponents and civil liberties in recent years. The uncompetitive election that took place, where his party won all seats, further raised concerns about the state of democracy in Cambodia. The disqualification of the only credible opposition party and the subsequent lack of a real alternative for voters drew condemnation from the US and the EU, who deemed the election neither free nor fair.
The transition of power to his son, Hun Manet, has long been anticipated, and his appointment as the next prime minister is scheduled for August 10. While some speculate that Hun Manet's Western education might suggest a potential for a less repressive regime and greater openness to human rights, others remain cautious, pointing out that he has not shown any evidence of such changes yet. Additionally, Hun Sen's continued leadership of the ruling Cambodian People's Party is expected to maintain his ultimate control over the country. Cambodia's political landscape faces uncertainty as it undergoes its first transfer of power in four decades.
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