Politics | Kumnit Khmer

How to build a better future for Cambodia

Jul 8, 2017 | Cultural, Overseas Khmer Summit, Politics

Five years ago, I spoke to an august gathering like this one about Khmer politics and change. It was gratifying when some let me know that my remarks had made them reconsider their thinking and perspective. There were others, I was told, who thought I was too...

From a reader: “Don’t expect any change until Hun Sen departs this planet”

Oct 20, 2016 | Politics

Several dozen readers sent comments on my last article “No Liberal Government As Long As Hun Sen Lives” (Oct. 4). I found the variety of reactions informative. There was a distinctive theme to views expressed by Khmers that differed from thoughts shared by...

No liberal government as long as Hun Sen lives

Oct 4, 2016 | Politics

Am I witnessing an encore of Khmers resuming political circle dancing, the Ramvong, moving hands and feet, going around and around in a circle, setting aside their recent posture of traditional Chul Trei Krem, or Siamese (Beta) fish fighting game described in my last...

Call off unfair elections, or accept outcome

Sep 18, 2016 | Politics, Radio Free Asia

A Khmer doctoral student in Budapest e-mailed me earlier this month: “[Cambodia’s] situation is not good. Hun Sen is determined to imprison [opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party deputy leader] Kem Sokha” and the “CNRP will mobilize people to protest.” “I hope...

Peang-Meth – Cambodian citizens’ well-being diminished

Jul 20, 2016 | Pacific Daily News, Politics

I had hoped that somehow Cambodians of opposing political camps – the growing vocal and fearless population demanding change and the military and police defending Prime Minister Hun Sen – would see it in their nation’s interest to avoid bloodshed. Khmers say two...

Peace sought in Cambodian politic

Jul 3, 2016 | Pacific Daily News, Politics

As fearless Khmer citizens are emboldened to call for regime change in Cambodia, they confront an intransigent Hun Sen, who employs tactics to divide opposition groups and threatens arrests. Civil disobedience may end in bloodshed. Khmers say a candle shines brightly...