Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia has spent over $1.5 million on Facebook ads since September 2022, coinciding with his father’s resignation and Hun Manet’s rise to power. Critics argue that the funding source for these ads should be disclosed, and there is a growing call for transparency and accountability in governmental operations.

According to an online database maintained by Meta Platform Inc., Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia has expended over $1.5 million on Facebook advertisements during the past two and a half years. His spending on promotional posts commenced in September 2022.

The increase in advertising spending coincided with significant political transitions, as Hun Manet’s father, Hun Sen, resigned from his position after 38 years in power following the July 2023 general elections. This development facilitated Hun Manet’s ascension to the premiership, a transition long anticipated by insiders.

Hun Sen has previously utilized Facebook as a platform to engage with the populace and criticize political adversaries, reflecting the platform’s substantial popularity within Cambodia. Just months prior to his resignation, Meta declined to follow its oversight board’s recommendation to suspend Hun Sen’s accounts after he issued threats against political rivals in the context of the election, which lacked serious opposition.

Hun Manet’s Facebook account, titled “Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia,” has predominantly focused its promotional activities on showcasing his involvement in public events and leadership responsibilities. This advertising strategy has also ensured greater visibility for his responses to online critiques.

Political commentator Kim Sok, currently in exile, has expressed the necessity for the Cambodian government to disclose the sources of funding validating the promotions for Hun Manet and other officials. He believes that revelations concerning whether these funds originate from governmental budgets or private donations are of paramount importance for public awareness and oversight by the Anti-Corruption Unit.

Kim Sok further remarked, “The promotion of Mr. Hun Manet, Mr. Hun Sen, and other officials on social media have been purely for their own personal gain, such as posting family photos.” He lamented the lack of focus in their communications on government policies that would genuinely aid the impoverished population and fortify the nation.

In conclusion, the revelation of Prime Minister Hun Manet’s substantial advertising expenditures on Facebook underscores the intertwining of social media and political influence in Cambodia. The demand for transparency regarding funding sources reflects broader concerns about accountability in governance. As public awareness grows, scrutiny of political practices and their implications on governance will likely intensify.

Original Source: www.rfa.org

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