(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet dismissed speculation that Cambodia plans to merge or dissolve ministries and state institutions, urging the public to stop spreading unfounded claims.

Speaking on Wednesday (Jul. 29) at a ceremony to distribute 23,076 land title certificates in Khsach Kandal district, Kandal province, the premier said the government has no plans to consolidate ministries or institutions.

His remarks came amid growing debate among academics, analysts, and social media users over whether Cambodia might streamline ministries with overlapping responsibilities.

"There is no such plan. Please remain calm," the prime minister said, warning that the rumours have undermined the morale of civil servants and fuelled misinformation.

Samdech Thipadei underlined that major administrative reforms cannot be implemented overnight and must be based on thorough research. He cited Viet Nam as an example, noting that its recent government restructuring followed extensive studies before reducing a district-level administrative tier.

He further explained that any reform requires careful study of its potential impacts. Other countries that have undertaken such reforms have followed similar approaches, while Cambodia's current priority is to strengthen ministries and institutions.

He added that while the government welcomes constructive suggestions, each country's administrative structure is different. Some nations combine ministries such as commerce and foreign affairs or industry and commerce, but Cambodia's current priority is strengthening existing ministries and institutions, not merging them.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet urged the public to stop speculating, saying timely clarification is necessary to prevent confusion and the spread of false information.
=FRESH NEWS