Hun Manet’s Warning to Thailand Amid Rising Tensions Over Disputed Temple
Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia has threatened military action against Thailand should it deploy troops to a disputed temple. This tension follows a recent confrontation at the Ta Moan Thom temple, highlighting unresolved boundary issues reminiscent of past conflicts over Preah Vihear temple. Additionally, Senate President Hun Sen rejected comparisons to other controversial leaders in light of ongoing governance criticism.
Prime Minister Hun Manet has issued a stern warning to Thailand, stating that Cambodia will consider military action if Thai soldiers approach a disputed ancient temple located on the border. The confrontation stemmed from unclear boundary demarcations at Ta Moan Thom temple, which escalated tensions between Cambodian and Thai troops last month, reported independent news outlet CamboJa.
In response to the altercations, the Thai military sent a formal protest letter to Cambodia, as confirmed by Thai Defense Minister in a press briefing on February 17. During a recent address, Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful resolutions guided by law and diplomacy; however, he affirmed the nation’s readiness to defend itself if necessary.
The ongoing dispute at Ta Moan Thom mirrors the historical tensions surrounding Preah Vihear temple, where violent clashes occurred between 2008 and 2011. This temple, located in the Dangrek Mountains, was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1962, yet the surrounding area remains contested.
Hun Manet highlighted that Cambodia possesses experience in addressing territorial grievances through legal channels. Furthermore, in a separate context, Senate President Hun Sen admonished against comparisons to former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, whose actions have led to international scrutiny.
During the conference, Hun Sen asserted the importance of not comparing Cambodian governance to that of dictators facing international prosecution. He emphasized the constitutional protections in place that safeguard Cambodian citizens from being sent abroad for legal matters.
Despite having resigned in favor of his son Hun Manet, Hun Sen’s lengthy tenure has drawn criticism from legal analysts who note the challenges he faces in shedding a dictatorial image. Cambodia’s accession to the Rome Statute of the ICC in 2002 grants the court jurisdiction over crimes committed by its nationals.
In summary, Prime Minister Hun Manet’s remarks underscore Cambodia’s firm stance on defending its sovereignty amid escalating tensions with Thailand regarding the Ta Moan Thom temple. Historical parallels to the Preah Vihear temple dispute reveal ongoing challenges in border demarcation and military engagement. Concurrently, Senate President Hun Sen’s remarks highlight the delicate nature of international perceptions about governance in Cambodia, especially concerning human rights and legal accountability.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
Post Comment