Cambodia PM Hun Sen says 2018 election result does not need international recognition
The ruling party has gone after critics in recent months in what opponents say is a bid to strengthen its grip on power ahead of the vote
Cambodia’s long-serving Prime Minister Hun Sen on Friday said the 2018 national election result does not require international recognition to be valid – the latest sign of his determination to hold on to power after almost 33 years in office.
Hun Sen’s ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) has gone after critics including members of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) in recent months in what opponents say is a bid to strengthen its grip on power ahead of the vote.
A court will rule on November 16 whether to dissolve the CNRP after the government filed a lawsuit demanding its dissolution.
Hun Sen’s critics accuse him of trying to turn the country into a one-party state.
Acrimony between the two parties has risen steadily, with Hun Sen threatening war should his party lose the 2018 poll.
Opposition leader Kem Sokha was charged with treason in September after being accused by the government of plotting to overthrow its leaders with the backing of the United States.