PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen invited environmental activists to join the Cambodian People's Party (CPP) in hopes that their expertise will aid in national development and protection from the dangers of foreign actors.

In a special audio message on the night of May 4, 2023, the PM regarded the environmentalists’ previous work with foreigners who he says aim to destroy Cambodia as an asset. He hopes that they will join the CPP so as to provide information the opposition’s tactics so that they may defend the peace of the nation.

"Put the past aside and look to the future," he said.

On the night of May 4, environmental activist Chhoeun Daravy posted a photo along five other former anti-government environmental activists standing next to the Prime Minister at the his residence in Takhmao City.

Chhoeun Daravy streamed a live video this morning, May 5, in which she clarified that the visit to the Prime Minister happened three months ago and was held to discuss solving community issues, not joining the CPP. She went on to say that if anyone wants to join the CPP, it is their right.

She said she hopes to get more work done before retiring from her work as an environmentalist.

In the run-up to the 2023 national elections, there have been a slew of former opposition activists asking to join the CPP, many accompanying their requests with public apologies. So far all requests have been honoured by Prime Minister Hun Sen, who is willing to accept new members regardless of previous politics.