The government spokesperson unit has strongly condemned the “immoral activities” and “despicable acts” of Thai nationals who have used images of high-ranking Cambodian leaders — such as Senate president Hun Sen, Prime Minister Hun Manet and military officers — to make dartboards or targets for fairground games or dartboards.
It described their actions as lacking dignity.
In a statement issued today, October 7, the spokesperson unit noted that most Asian peoples, particularly Thais and Khmers, have a long tradition of showing the utmost respect toward members of Royal families or senior officials.
The statement reiterated that the Cambodian leadership has repeatedly called on Khmer people not to use the sacred images of Thai royalty of other Thai leaders for inappropriate activities. The have also regularly reminded their citizens not to discriminate against Thai people who live and work in Cambodia.
“In fact, on October 6, despite serious insults from some Thai nationals, Hun Sen, president of the Senate and acting Head of State, called on Khmer citizens not to retaliate against the Thai side with such actions. This demonstrates the noble virtues of Cambodian leaders toward This royalty and leaders,” it added.
It also shared regret that Thai authorities allow such insulting behaviour to take place.
“Although Cambodia is a small country with a small population and a still-weak economy, Cambodian leaders always adhere to the principles of peace, resolving issues through peaceful means, and seeking peaceful borders, friendship, cooperation and development, without ever considering neighbours or any other countries enemies,” it said.
On October 6, Hun Sen expressed dissatisfaction with the Thai nationals who used photographs of him and of Maly Socheata, defence ministry spokesperson, as targets for fairground games.
In addition, the images have reportedly been used to generate AI videos suggesting that the Senate president and the spokesperson have an inappropriate relationship, in an attempt to defame the pair.
