Phnom Prnh (FN), Apr. 3 – Cambodian President of the Senate Hun Sen recalled the history of the establishment of the Senate in resolving the political deadlock in the kingdom 25 years ago, addressing the first session of the Senate of the 5th legislature on Wednesday morning (Apr. 3).

Samdech Techo highlighted that the inception of the Senate was a great grace bestowed by Cambodian late king father who solved the Cambodian political crisis. The idea to establish the Senate was originated from Samdech Sok An, which was also discussed with Prak Sokhonn. This initiative aimed to resolve the political stalemate.

Samdech Hun Sen also recalled the attempted murder on his life on 24 September 1998 in Siem Reap. Samdech continued that while the attempt to murder him in Siem Reap was unsuccessful, some of his generals advocated for an attack on the city. Four rockets were detonated, resulting in a tragic event. However, despite the attempt, Cambodia managed to convene a parliamentary session and proceed with the swearing-in ceremony in front of Angkor Wat.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen added with the aftermath of the National Assembly meeting. The formation of the Royal Government of Cambodia was delayed due to security concerns following an attack on Samdech Techo's residence in Phnom Penh by a group of assassins. A small group of demonstrators camped outside the National Assembly, prompting Samdech Techo to issue an order prohibiting individuals from leaving Phnom Penh and traveling abroad.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also recalled an incident during talks in Siem Reap where Tol Las questioned Samdech Techo Hun Sen's decision to prevent MPs from leaving the country, arguing it was incorrect with regards to immunity. Samdech Techo clarified that MPs did not possess immunity until the parliament was officially convened. Despite this clarification, some deputies left the country, prolonging the political deadlock in Cambodia.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen stated that Samdech also went to discuss with Samdech Chea Sim and then met with the Standing Committee of the Cambodian People's Party that there is only one way to use the power sharing in the two-thirds system. That is the creation of the Senate. We also sent this message to FUNCINPEC party led by Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh and he then convened a meeting. According to Samdech Techo Hun Sen, at that time, Samdech Krom Preah also requested security for him.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also mentioned that at that time, the Cambodian People's Party also proposed the idea to establish the Senate. Thus, the Senate emerges from resolving political crises, but the establishment of the Senate is also a pattern of many countries with two parliaments.

Hence, in late November, the Royal Government for the second legislature was established. On 2 December 1998, during the inaugural session of the Council of Ministers for the second term of the National Assembly, Samdech Techo Hun Sen outlined a strategic triangular approach.
=FRESH NEWS