Kandal: During the inauguration of the new school building and achievements at Wat Preah Int Samak Dham, President of the Senate Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his pleasure at returning to the site and meeting with the locals of Kandal province.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen commended Samdech Vong Aneta for his dedication to the development of Wat Preah Int Samak Dham, praising his leadership that has facilitated continuous growth for the pagoda beginning from its humble beginnings in rice fields.
The President of the Senate emphasized the importance of effective management and leadership, stating that proper guidance is essential for the success of both nations and institutions.
Reflecting on Cambodia's journey, Samdech Techo Hun Sen recalled the nation's plight following the liberation from French colonial rule, led by Samdech Preah Borom Ratanakoth (King Father), which initially brought prosperity but was followed by the devastation after the coup d'état on March 18, 1970. He highlighted the collective efforts of Cambodian leaders to rebuild the country from the devastation wrought by the genocidal regime to the progress seen today.
He expressed gratitude to the residents of Kandal Province and across the nation who voted for the Cambodian People's Party in the July 2023 elections, as well as to all who supported his decision to appoint a new Prime Minister.
Addressing the leadership transition, Samdech Techo Hun Sen acknowledged it as a significant issue attracting attention both domestically and internationally, including from Japan. He reassured the public that the new Prime Minister has maintained peace and social stability over the past 17 months while promoting development.
He encouraged public understanding regarding the recent price of rice, attributing issues in pricing to the dynamics of the rice export market, particularly concerning India.
In response to questions about Samdech Maha Bovorathei Hun Manet stepping out of his father’s shadow, Samdech Techo Hun Sen asserted that the leadership of the Royal Government must adhere to the party's political framework. He remarked on his extensive experience, having served as Prime Minister for 38 years, and how his non-interference has resulted in strengthening the leadership of his successor, Samdech Maha Bavorathei Hun Manet.
He shared that upon Hun Manet's assuming office as Prime Minister, he lacked a residence, prompting Samdech Techo Hun Sen to facilitate housing for him adjacent to his own.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen made clear that any Prime Minister, regardless of familial ties, who contradicts party policy must be held accountable. He also revealed that a group of journalists had visited the University of Bristol to investigate Hun Manet’s graduation thesis, leading to a resolution regarding his academic credentials.
Furthermore, he addressed challenges posed by individuals opposed to the government, critiquing those who exploit legal loopholes as foolish while those with intelligence seek refuge abroad. He noted a significant legislative change from a two-thirds majority to a simple majority in the National Assembly.
Before concluding, he requested ministers to be proactive in preparation for his participation in public forums. He announced the construction of a four-story school building at Wat Preah Int Samak Dham, pledging 100 million riels monthly for operational expenditures over the coming year.
Although he did not make a decision regarding requests for teaching staff at the school, he left future hiring up to the Royal Government's review. Additionally, he disclosed concerns about a planned drone attack on his residence in Takhmao.
Finally, he clarified that all funding for the construction at Wat Preah Int Samak Dham did not come from the national budget, and he expressed disapproval of political adversaries who declare a need to obliterate his legacy, stating, “There is no need to resurrect what has already been laid to rest.”
