Cambodia kicks off campaign for controversial election
PHNOM PENH: Cambodian political parties yesterday kicked off a three-week-long campaign for a controversial general election later this month, which strongman Hun Sen is poised to sweep after the main opposition were disbanded and their senior members driven into self-exile.
Hun Sen – who has ruled Cambodia for 33 years – told a sea of supporters dressed in matching T-shirts adorned with the logo of his ruling party, that his government would ensure peace, economic growth and raise salaries for the key garment worker sector every year.
He also boasted about the role of his Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) in ending the rule of the Khmer Rouge and muffling the threat of what he labels a ‘colour revolution’ led by the former opposition.
“I have led the country through many dangerous situations ... despite attempts by some illwilled groups inside and outside of the country to create all kinds of difficulties to hamper our journey in building, protecting and developing the nation,” Hun Sen said.
With his usual populist flourish he promised better roads and schools in rural areas and to bring down electricity bills.
“If you love peace and development, please vote for CPP,” he said.
“When CPP wins, people win,” he added.
After Hun Sen’s speech, tens of thousands of his supporters took to the capital’s streets for a colourful march, while motor scooters and cars adorned with party banners roared up and down the roads.
In recent years Hun Sen, one of the world’s longest serving leaders, has tried hard to court the nation’s youth, launching a Facebook page and displaying a lighter, more approachable side in public. — AFP