Senate president: ‘I’m not going anywhere — fellow citizens, please don’t worry’

Senate president: ‘I’m not going anywhere — fellow citizens, please don’t worry’

Senate president Hun Sen has dismissed reports by a Thai media outlet claiming he had fled to China, affirming instead that he is still in Cambodia, actively coordinating military operations to “fight back against the Thai invaders”.

“At this moment, I am participating in directing the armed forces via video and other communication systems, alongside the prime minister, the defence minister, the commander of the army and the commanders of all military units — to strike back at the Thai invaders,” he said, vis social media.

“I am not fleeing anywhere. Fellow citizens, please don’t worry! I’ve been sitting right here since the moment Thailand’s Region Two military commander announced the closure of the gate to the Ta Moan Thom Temple,” he added.

He claimed it was this Thai military commander who initiated the conflict by ordering the closure of the temple yesterday, and by opening fire on Cambodian troops earlier this morning.

“This is the same guy who once threatened to defeat Cambodia in just three days. I’d like to see what kind of strategy he’s got for that. The deceptive narratives of Thai politicians and Thai media have now become part of their normal culture. Please, go ahead and keep up the lies — ‘Don’t Thai to me’,” he said.