Political tension in Cambodia eases

During their 5-hour meeting, the two agreed on King Norodom Sihamoni’s request to prevent a recurrence of violence and establish a joint committee to discuss future electoral reform. They also agreed to meet again to settle other post-election issues. Although no specific plan was set, observers say the CPP gained an advantage as none of the CNRP’s requests was met.

The public and authorized agencies recognized the CPP’s victory in the July 28 parliamentary election, but the CNRP rejected the result and demanded an independent investigation into voting irregularities.

On September 17, the second day of a 3-day protest initiated by the CNRP, CNRP supporters began to withdraw from Freedom Square tired and frustrated. The number of protestors has fallen from 20,000 to 1,000 and is expected to wane even more.

This suggests that Cambodia is getting back to normal because the protestors have been unable to get their demands met. One person died and five others were injured when protestors clashed with police, who had to use tear gas to disperse the crowd on September 15.

Analysts say that after nearly three decades of ruling, Hun Sen and the CPP are facing a tough political challenge, losing many parliament seats to the CNRP, making it difficult for the CPP to form a new government.

But Hun Sen still has the advantage as he remains in control of the state apparatus and security forces. In addition, he has experience recruiting people from opposition parties. He will likely try to use this experience to establish a new government without negotiating with the CNRP.

It is thought that Hun Sen is planning an attack on Sam Rainsy, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison for political reasons. This, would probably be Hun Sen’s last resort because it would harm his image as a moderate leader, which he has been promoted in recent years.

Prior to the election, Hun Sen arranged a royal pardon for Rainsy so he could return to Cambodia, making Hun Sen a democratic leader in the eyes of Cambodian voters.

Cambodians placed their trust in the hands of the man who rid the country of the genocidal Khmer rouge regime, and election results in 1998, 2003 and 2008 proved they were right. During Cambodia’s most difficult years, Hun Sen played an important role in national development and stability. His comprehensive strategy focuses on political stability, foreign aid and investment and job creation towards peace and prosperity.

Observers expect a long negotiation process between the CPP and the CNRP. However, as the two parties have agreed to prevent the recurrence of violence, this will be a precondition for Cambodia to establish a united government and restore stability.