PM warns Ranariddh over ‘false’ claims

By Neth Pheaktra

The Mekong Times

Prime Minister Hun Sen (pictured) reacted with indignation to Prince Norodom Ranariddh’s claim that the premier had made the Prince’s retirement from politics a necessary condition for his return to Cambodia.Prince Norodom Ranariddh, currently in self-imposed exile after his conviction for breach of trust, recently claimed that Hun Sen told him he must either quit politics, return to lead the Funcinpec Party or apologize for his past mistakes. During a speech in Kratie province, Hun Sen angrily denied the prince’s claim. “It is not the truth,” he said, warning Norodom Ranariddh not to accuse others.

“Particularly do not throw a stone on Hun Sen’s leg. The stone does not fall on Hun Sen’s leg but is sure to fall on your own leg,” he menaced cryptically.

Hun Sen went on to advise King Father Norodom Sihanouk to discipline his son. “Please lecture him. It is your matter: Do not blame Hun Sen. If it is Hun Sen’s problem, Hun Sen will solve it,” the premier said, using his favored third-person form of address. He added that he would no longer speak to the prince.

Norodom Ranariddh Party spokesman Muth Chantha backed up Norodom Ranariddh, saying other witnesses would also confirm his story. He said Hun Sen was trying to gain an advantage ahead of elections by rendering the prince powerless.

Koul Panha, president of the Committee for Free and Fair Elections (COMFREL), said Norodom Ranariddh’s presence was necessary for a fair and transparent election. He urged the premier to allow King Norodom Sihamoni to use his Royal Pardon to ensure Norodom Ranariddh’s return.

Hun Sen also asked that the royal titles Preah Ang Machas (Prince) and Toul Bangkum Khnum (Royal Highness) used in the National Assembly, Senate and government be dropped. “We protect the monarchy but politicians should not have an impunity which is different from other politicians,” he said.

Koul Panha agreed that royal terms should not be used in the National Assembly and the Senate, suggesting that the use of the lofty title Samdech, which is considered higher than “Excellency”, should also be restricted. “If these high titles … are used, it will make ordinary people with no titles reluctant to contact [these persons],” he said.