(Siem Reap): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that power can be delegated, but accountability cannot. He emphasised that ministries, provincial authorities, and military units must carry out national policy under his leadership without hesitation because he alone bears the ultimate accountability.

The premier spoke on Monday (Jun. 23) at the closing of the Central Committee Meeting of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) in Siem Reap province.

“If I announce the closure of border checkpoints, and there are consequences, I take responsibility, not the province. If I say to stop importing fuel, it is not the minister of mines and energy who is responsible, it’s me. So don’t be afraid. As leaders, we can delegate power, but not accountability,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei continued, “Don’t accuse me of playing the nationalism card just to boost popularity. I’m not simply leading the country; I am fulfilling a duty entrusted to me by 17 million Cambodians to protect national sovereignty and the supreme national interest.”

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei added that Cambodia operates differently from Thailand. In Cambodia, when the prime minister gives an order, it is implemented. In Thailand, the prime minister may say one thing, but the military does another.

In response to recent provocations from the Thai side, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced a suspension of all fuel and gas imports from Thailand. Additionally, he ordered the permanent closure of the Choub Korki and the Choam checkpoints in Udor Meanchey province, following unilateral actions by Thailand’s Region 2 military command, which had closed the corresponding Sae Taku-Choub Korki checkpoint.
=FRESH NEWS