Stop the Smears: Samdech Techo Hun Sen Deserves Respect, Not Fabricated Accusations

Stop the Smears: Samdech Techo Hun Sen Deserves Respect, Not Fabricated Accusations

In recent days, a wave of misleading narratives has flooded Thai media, accusing Samdech Techo Hun Sen—the former Prime Minister of Cambodia and current President of the Senate—of allegedly leaking a private phone call between himself and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. These accusations, which lack any credible evidence, are nothing more than politically motivated attacks intended to tarnish the reputation of a statesman who has devoted decades to maintaining peace, stability, and diplomatic harmony in the region.

A Manufactured Controversy

The so-called “leaked phone call” story has been irresponsibly amplified by several Thai outlets and social media influencers, who claim—without substantiation—that Samdech Techo Hun Sen deliberately made the call public for political gain. The truth is far more grounded and less sensational: there is no indication, no official complaint, and no forensic evidence to suggest that Samdech Techo was behind any leak. In fact, the dissemination of the conversation appeared to come from Thai-based platforms, raising serious questions about whether this was, in fact, an internal political maneuver within Thailand, aimed at discrediting their own Prime Minister’s foreign engagements.

Malinformation: A New Form of Disinformation

This incident fits into a broader pattern of malinformation—the deliberate distortion of true or half-true information with the intent to damage a person or state. Thai media’s handling of this story demonstrates a reckless disregard for journalistic ethics. By publishing speculative and inflammatory content without verification, they have undermined not only Cambodian dignity but also the foundations of regional diplomacy.

Instead of seeking clarification through official diplomatic channels, certain Thai media houses have rushed to conclusions, essentially trying and convicting Samdech Techo Hun Sen in the court of public opinion. Such behavior is not journalism—it is propaganda dressed as news.

A Record of Responsible Statesmanship

Let us not forget who Samdech Techo Hun Sen is: a leader who steered Cambodia out of civil war, brokered peace among warring factions, and transformed the country from a conflict zone into a fast-developing economy. His experience and credibility in foreign affairs are unmatched in Southeast Asia. Leaders across ASEAN and beyond continue to seek his counsel precisely because of his commitment to stability and mutual respect.

Rather than attacking him, Thai media and commentators should recognize that Cambodia and Thailand share a deeply interconnected history and future. Sensationalist journalism that pits our countries against one another only weakens ASEAN and emboldens external forces eager to see Southeast Asia divided.

Cambodia Deserves Better

The people of Cambodia stand with Samdech Techo Hun Sen. We reject the unfounded claims being peddled by biased outlets. If there are genuine concerns over diplomatic protocol, let them be addressed through proper channels—not through media campaigns aimed at undermining Cambodia’s sovereignty and discrediting one of its most respected figures.

We urge the Thai government to distance itself from media manipulation and to reaffirm its commitment to truthful communication, mutual respect, and regional peace. And to those Thai outlets pushing these baseless claims: Cambodia is watching, and we will not remain silent in the face of smear campaigns. Let truth—not propaganda—guide our region forward.

By Roth Santepheap, Geopolitical Analyst based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The views and opinions expressed are his own.

Source:Khmer Times