Long-serving Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen is set to win another term in a general election that critics say was surrounded by suppression and manipulation of opposition groups.
Election Developments: The voting process started without any significant international observers from Western countries, citing the election lacked conditions to be considered free and fair.
* International officials from Russia, China and Guinea-Bissau observed the election.
* Hun Sen, in power for the last 38 years, is expected to transition the premiership to his oldest son, Hun Manet, during this term.
Leadership Transition: Hun Manet, educated in the U.S. and Britain, is likely to continue his father’s policies, including aligning Cambodia with China.
* Observers don’t anticipate major policy shifts under Hun Manet’s leadership.
* A broader generational shift is expected, with younger leaders taking up most ministerial positions.
Voter’s Perspective: Stability is a major factor in voters’ considerations, observed at the station where Hun Sen cast his vote.
* There were few reports of any protests against the elections, but police spokesperson noted some arrests in connection with spoiling of ballots.
The Contested Past: Hun Sen, once part of the Khmer Rouge regime responsible for genocide in the 70s, has been in power since the early 80s.
* His grip on power was challenged in the 2013 elections by the Cambodian National Rescue Party which won 44% of the popular vote; however, the party was later dissolved in 2017 due to legal actions.
Criticism: The suppression of opposition and control of the election process have led to widespread criticism from human rights organizations.
* Organizations like Human Rights Watch stated that this election bears little resemblance to a democratic process.
* Asian Network for Free Elections also claimed bias in the disqualification of Candlelight Party, the successor to CNRP, calling the environment imbalanced and unfair.
What’s Next: Despite the manipulation and suppression of opposition, the government’s emphasis on a new national project appears to have gained acceptance amongst the populace.
* The largest likely recipient of any anti-government vote is projected to be FUNCINPEC, a royalist party, who is focusing on possible gains in the 2028 election.
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