Cambodian Leader Hun Sen Elected Senate President
Former Cambodian leader Hun Sen was elected Senate president on Wednesday, taking over a key ceremonial role less than a year after handing over power to his son.
Hun Sen’s Political Journey
Hun Sen stepped down in August after nearly four decades of iron-fisted rule, passing the baton to his eldest son Hun Manet, following a landslide win in national polls held without any significant opposition parties.
In February, his ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) won 55 seats — including his own — out of 58 in the Senate election, with the opposition Khmer Will Party taking the remainder.
Senate President Role
The position allows Hun Sen to act as acting head of state when the king is overseas. Senators unanimously voted to approve Hun Sen as president of the Senate after King Norodom Sihamoni convened its first meeting.
Addressing the senators after the vote, Hun Sen thanked them for the “honor” and expressed his commitment to further Cambodia’s international diplomacy.
Symbolism and Power Consolidation
Analysts believe that Hun Sen’s new role as Senate president will allow him to continue dominating the country, as the Senate holds the highest ceremonial role as the highest political symbol of the nation.
It is the latest in a series of moves that have seen Hun Sen consolidate power across the government, with his administration including several of his relatives and allies in key positions.
Criticism and Legacy
After coming to power in 1985, Hun Sen helped modernize Cambodia, but critics point to environmental destruction, corruption, and the elimination of political rivals as marks of his rule.