Cambodia , Apr 15, 2025
Hun Manet, Cambodia’s new Prime Minister and the son of long-time leader Hun Sen, is facing his first significant political test. Widespread protests have broken out in the capital, Phnom Penh, driven by economic grievances, land disputes, and calls for greater civil liberties. The demonstrations mark a turning point for Hun Manet, who came to power promising generational change and a more open leadership style.
However, the government’s response so far has been a mix of restraint and quiet suppression. While security forces have largely avoided violent crackdowns, reports of surveillance, detentions, and media restrictions raise concerns that Hun Manet may revert to his father’s authoritarian playbook.
Civil society groups are closely watching how Hun Manet manages dissent. Will he genuinely embrace reform, or is this simply a rebranding of dynastic rule in Southeast Asia? The outcome could shape not only Cambodia’s democratic trajectory but also its international standing in the region.
