Phnom Penh: Cambodia marked the commencement of its 5th Senate election, with 33 polling stations opening across the nation at 7 am. This significant political event, held every six years, features a unique non-universal voting system. The electorate comprises commune councils, municipal councils, district councils, provincial councils, and the National Assembly, tallying up to 11,747 constituencies, including 2,584 women.

In Phnom Penh alone, two polling stations were set up to accommodate voters. Prime Minister Hun Manet was among the early voters, casting his ballot at polling station 1001. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Supreme Advisory Council to the King, Hun Sen, who has expressed his desire to assume the presidency of the Senate, participated in the electoral process in Kandal province.

The electoral battle saw the participation of four political parties: the Cambodian People's Party (CPP), the Khmer Will Party, the FUNCINPEC Party, and the National Forces Party. These parties competed for positions within the Senate, highlighting the political diversity and vibrancy of Cambodia's legislative landscape.

The election process is closely monitored for transparency and fairness. Assuming there are no disputes, complaints, or calls for re-election, the National Election Committee (NEC) is set to officially announce the election results on April 2, 2024. This announcement will mark the conclusion of a pivotal event in Cambodia's political calendar, setting the stage for the next term of legislative governance.