Hun Sen Recalls 1998 Assassination Attempt, Vows to Consolidate Power

Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of the Kingdom of Cambodia, has reflected on an assassination attempt made against him 28 years ago, revealing his state of mind at the time and his subsequent resolve to consolidate power and end the war. On September 24, marking the 28th anniversary of the failed attempt on his life on September 24, 1998, Samdech Techo wrote on his social media account: "After surviving the enemy's plot to kill me, I placed my hands on my head and vowed to myself that I must consolidate power and end the war at all costs." He explained that following his victory in the 1998 general election, he had initially intended to step down as Prime Minister. However, the assassination attempt altered this decision. While originally planning to serve as Prime Minister only until 2003, the incident prompted him to vow to consolidate power, end the war, and remain Prime Minister until he no longer wished to serve. Furthermore, Samdech Techo stated that he had declared: "While I was Prime Minister today, I would become the father of the Prime Minister in the future." He noted that this declaration has now been achieved, with his son, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, having served as Prime Minister for over three years through constitutional elections. He added that he had wanted to retire as Prime Minister at the age of 46, but due to the attempt on his life, he continued to serve as Prime Minister for another 25 years until stepping down at the age of 71. This recollection highlights the context of Cambodia's political landscape at the time and Samdech Techo's strong determination towards stabilizing the nation. It underscores his firm will to consolidate power and bring an end to the conflict. Source: AKP Cambodia