(Jakarta): Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen appealed to the public not to criticize Cambodian late King Father Norodom Sihanouk for having brought bodyguards from North Korea to protect himself instead of choosing local forces, during a period when Cambodia had just emerged from war and had not yet achieved full peace. Samdech Techo clarified that the decision to bring in the North Korean guards had his involvement and was made at his own suggestion to the North Korean president.

Samdech Techo delivered a lecture titled “Visions and Experiences in Cambodia’s Peacebuilding Efforts” at the ERIA School of Government in Jakarta, Indonesia on Tuesday (May 6).

“Allow me to clarify one more point. Some people continue to criticise the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, even now, questioning why he brought North Korean bodyguards for his protection. I must make it clear: this was not his fault—it was my responsibility. I take full accountability. No criticism should be directed at our late King,” Samdech Techo underscored.

He further explained that this incident occurred in Jakarta, during a period of political reconciliation, when late king father was returning to Cambodia and taking residence in the Royal Palace as head of state.

Samdech Techo continued, “On June 6, the king met me again. I asked where he would stay, and he replied, ‘Please protect me. I'm afraid the Khmer Rouge might sneak into the palace and assassinate me.’ At that time, I believed our troops could provide sufficient protection.

He added that during a previous visit to North Korea with His Majesty, they met the North Korean president. At that time, Samdech personally requested the president to send a team including bodyguards, food tasters, and medical staff to assist in ensuring late King Father Norodom Sihanouk’s safety. Therefore, please do not accuse His Majesty of lacking trust in Cambodia’s security forces.
=FRESH NEWS