As of 2025, the Prime Minister of Cambodia is Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet. He succeeded his father, Hun Sen, who had been the prime minister for close to four decades. This transition was notable and has been described as a “two-penny farce” by political figures like Sam Rainsy, given the context of Cambodia’s political landscape [3].
hun Manet’s appointment as prime minister was part of a long-standing political strategy by Hun Sen to maintain his influence over the country. The transition was formalized under the current constitution, which allows for the prime minister to be elected to a five-year term with no limits on the number of terms [1].
For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:
- Cambodia Leader, Hun Sen, Appoints Hun Manet as New Prime Minister – The New York Times
- Hun Manet succeeds his father, Hun Sen, as leader of Cambodia – NBC News
Hun Manet graces the Philippine-Cambodia Business Forum at the Makati Shangri-La in Makati City on Monday (Feb. 10, 2025). The Cambodian leader aims to open full economic ties between Manila and Phnom penh in his first official visit hear. PNA PHOTO
“This forum is more then just a gathering. It is a bridge between our nations and a place where business connects, ideas thrive, and meaningful partnership.Together, we are strengthening economic ties and opening new opportunities,” Hun Manet said.
The Cambodian leader eyes a stronger partnership with the Philippines in sectors of rice, tourism, air connectivity, skills progress, and infrastructure. In the same event, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said the Board of Investments and the Council for the development of Cambodia are eyeing to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for closer investment relations between Manila and Phnom Penh.
“We aim to exchange information on the investment regime of both sides and assist investors from each side as they explore opportunities,” Rodolfo told reporters on the sidelines of the event.
Meanwhile, the Cambodian Prime minister witnessed the signing of two mous between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and industry and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, as well as Asia Europe University and World Citi Colleges.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet: Navigating Political Continuity and Economic Ties
As of 2025, the Prime Minister of Cambodia is Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, who succeeded his father, Hun Sen, who had been the prime minister for close to four decades. This transition was notable and has been described as a “two-penny farce” by political figures like Sam Rainsy, given the context of Cambodia’s political landscape.
Interview with Dr. Asean expertise: implications of Hun Manet’s Appointment
Interviewer (IE): Dr. Safiya Ahmed, Senior Editor, world-today-news.com
Guest (SG): Dr.Kenneth Bai, Political Scientist and SE Asian Specialist
IE: welcome, Dr. Bai. How does Hun Manet’s appointment as the Prime Minister of Cambodia reflect his father’s long-standing political strategy?
SG: Hun Sen has always aimed to maintain a tight grip on power. Hun Manet’s appointment is part of a carefully planned succession strategy that ensures the family’s political dominance continues.the fact that it was formalized under the current constitution, which allows for an elected prime minister with no term limits, reflects this meticulous planning.
IE: Can you elaborate on the reaction from political figures like Sam Rainsy, who described this transition as a “two-penny farce”?
SG: Sam Rainsy and others like him see this as a mockery of democratic principles. The use of the term “farce” highlights concerns about the legitimacy of the transition and doubt about whether it truly reflects the will of the Cambodian people.
IE: In what ways is Hun Manet’sдав,first official visit to the Philippines significant?
SG: Hun Manet’s visit to the Philippines is aimed at fostering stronger economic ties between Cambodia and the Philippines. The focus on sectors like rice, tourism, air connectivity, skills progress, and infrastructure indicates a desire for deeper integration and cooperation between the two countries. This visit could lead to significant economic gains and enhance bilateral relations.
IE: The forum mentioned Miss the involvement of several vital organizations. How might these collaborative efforts impact future initiatives between Cambodia and the Philippines?
SG: The signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) between significant organizations like the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, as well as between educational institutions, sets a strong foundation for future economic and educational collaborations. Such agreements facilitate knowlege sharing, investment, and skills development, which are crucial for economic growth.
IE: What are the key takeaways from Hun Manet’s visit and its implications for Cambodia’s future?
SG: the visit highlights Hun Manet’s intention to build on his father’s political legacy by forging robust international relationships. This visit not only strengthens economic ties but also positions Cambodia favorably on the global stage. It is a clear signal that Cambodia is committed to regional cooperation and economic development.
Source: List of prime ministers of Cambodia - Wikipedia,
Cambodia Leader, Hun Sen, Appoints Hun Manet as New Prime Minister – The New York times,
Hun Manet succeeds his father, Hun Sen, as leader of Cambodia – NBC News
