Hun Sen Recalls Assassination Attempt 28 Years Ago, Vows to Consolidate Power and End War

Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen (current President of the Senate and President of the ruling Cambodian People's Party) recalled a political assassination attempt from 28 years ago, revealing the circumstances and his determination at the time on social media. On September 24, 2026, Hun Sen posted, "Today marks the 28th anniversary of the assassination attempt on me by political outlaws." He stated that at the time of the attempt on September 24, 1998, he placed his hand on his head and vowed in his heart, "I must consolidate power and end the war." Hun Sen explained that after the 1998 general election, he had intended to resign as Prime Minister, but this was not accepted by party leaders. He recalled a meeting of the party's Standing Committee at his home in Ta Khmao on the evening of July 27, 1998, chaired by Chea Sim, where his resignation request was denied. While he initially planned to serve as Prime Minister until 2003, the experience of being "brutally targeted for assassination" led him to strengthen his power base, end the civil war, and commit to remaining Prime Minister "until I no longer wish to serve." Furthermore, Hun Sen referenced his own words, "Today I am Prime Minister, tomorrow I will be the father of a Prime Minister," which have now come to fruition. He pointed out that his son, Hun Manet, has served as Prime Minister for over three years, in accordance with elections and the constitution. The former Prime Minister reflected that although he wanted to step down as Prime Minister at the age of 46, the assassination attempt led him to continue serving for another 25 years until the age of 71. He currently maintains influence as party leader and Senate President, stating he will continue to confront those who "seek to eliminate the Hun family" until they are gone from this earth. This incident is considered a significant event in understanding the power struggles in Cambodia's modern history and the establishment of Hun Sen's long-term rule.