Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen started his ruling party's campaign for the upcoming elections later this month. Critics have described these elections as a facade after the main opposition party was barred from running. He stated, "The Cambodian People's Party, under my leadership, has achieved peace and socioeconomic development, and has promoted democracy and respected rights and freedoms." However, he also mentioned, "Any attempts to incite social unrest or rebellion will be suppressed."
Besides the Cambodian People's Party, only smaller parties, which have little funding and popularity, will participate in the elections scheduled for July 23. Hun Sen has recently instructed the parliament to amend the law to prevent anyone who does not vote from participating in future elections.
