Cambodian President of the
Senate Hun Sen recalled the history of the establishment of the Senate in
resolving the political deadlock in the kingdom 25 years ago, addressing the
first session of the Senate of the 5th legislature on April 3, 2024.
He highlighted that the inception of the Senate was a great
grace bestowed by Cambodian late king father who solved the Cambodian political
crisis. The idea to establish the Senate was originated from Sok An, which was
also discussed with PrakSokhonn. This initiative aimed to resolve the political
stalemate.
Hun Sen also recalled the attempted murder on his life on 24
September 1998 in Siem Reap. He continued that while the attempt to murder him
in Siem Reap was unsuccessful, some of his generals advocated for an attack on
the city.
Four rockets were detonated, resulting in a tragic event.
However, despite the attempt, Cambodia managed to convene a parliamentary
session and proceed with the swearing-in ceremony in front of Angkor Wat.
He added with the aftermath of the National Assembly meeting.
The formation of the Royal Government of Cambodia was delayed due to security
concerns following an attack on Hun Sen’s residence in Phnom Penh by a group of
assassins. A small group of demonstrators camped outside the National Assembly,
prompting Hun Sen to issue an order prohibiting individuals from leaving Phnom
Penh and traveling abroad.
Hun Sen also recalled an incident during talks in Siem Reap
where Tol Las questioned his decision to prevent MPs from leaving the country,
arguing it was incorrect with regards to immunity. He clarified that MPs did
not possess immunity until the parliament was officially convened. Despite this
clarification, some deputies left the country, prolonging the political
deadlock in Cambodia.
Hun Sen stated that he also went to discuss with Chea Sim and
then met with the Standing Committee of the Cambodian People’s Party that there
is only one way to use the power sharing in the two-thirds system. That is the
creation of the Senate. We also sent this message to FUNCINPEC party led by
Preah Norodom Ranariddh and he then convened a meeting. According to Hun Sen,
at that time, Preah Norodom Ranariddh also requested security for him.
He also mentioned that at that time, the Cambodian People’s
Party also proposed the idea to establish the Senate. Thus, the Senate emerges
from resolving political crises, but the establishment of the Senate is also a
pattern of many countries with two parliaments.
Hence, in late November, the
Royal Government for the second legislature was established. On 2 December
1998, during the inaugural session of the Council of Ministers for the second
term of the National Assembly, Hun Sen outlined a strategic triangular approach.
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