Cambodia’s Hun Sen warns opponents to ‘prepare coffins’ ahead of elections

Cambodia’s strongman premier on Wednesday told his critics and political opponents they faced elimination and should “prepare coffins”, an escalation in rhetoric even for a man known for bellicose speeches.

Prime Minister Hun Sen has ruled the impoverished nation for 32 years, making him one of the world’s longest serving leaders.

He portrays himself as a leader who has brought growth and stability while critics say corruption, inequality and right abuses have become entrenched during his years in office.

The 64-year-old delivered a string of increasingly shrill speeches in the run up to local elections earlier this month, which saw the main opposition party make significant gains.

But on Wednesday he delivered one of his most vitriolic speeches yet, warning of civil war if his party is toppled in next year’s general election.

Flanked by top military brass and senior government officials, Hun Sen said troops were ready to “crack down on all movements that would topple [the government] and damage the nation.”