More Than a Poll: Why the Thai Narrative Against Samdech Techo Hun Sen Betrays a Fear of the Truth

More Than a Poll: Why the Thai Narrative Against Samdech Techo Hun Sen Betrays a Fear of the Truth

In its 6 July 2025 article, Khaosod English showcased the results of a NIDA opinion poll designed to cast Samdech Techo Hun Sen—the President of the Cambodian Senate and former long-serving Prime Minister—in an overwhelmingly negative light. Conducted from June 30 to July 2, the poll claimed to reflect Thai public sentiment regarding his recent comments on the rising tensions between Cambodia and Thailand. But a closer look reveals this survey says far more about political insecurity in Thailand than it does about Samdech Techo Hun Sen himself.

A Regional Statesman, Not a Scapegoat
Samdech Techo Hun Sen is not an ordinary political figure. He is a statesman who ended Cambodia’s darkest chapter, a unifier who dismantled the Khmer Rouge, brokered national reconciliation, and laid the foundations for the Paris Peace Agreements and make end the civil war by Win-Win Policy. Under his leadership, Cambodia evolved from the ashes of civil war into one of ASEAN’s fastest-growing economies. He is blunt, pragmatic, and unwavering—qualities that regional leaders often find uncomfortable, especially when he speaks the truth.

To suggest, as the poll does, that Samdech Techo Hun Sen “acts only for his own benefit” or makes “random guesses” is not only disrespectful—it is dangerously misleading. It whitewashes decades of sacrifice and peacebuilding. Today, Samdech Techo Hun Sen continues to speak out on issues of sovereignty and regional stability, particularly in response to renewed Thai aggression. His voice is not one of provocation—but of warning.

Politics Behind the Poll
NIDA is not a neutral actor. As a Thai state-funded institution, its “opinion surveys” must be scrutinized in light of the political tensions between our two countries. This particular poll framed Samdech Techo Hun Sen as a destabilizing figure, without offering any context about Thailand’s recent violations of Cambodian territory or the inflammatory claims made by Thai officials over ancient Khmer temples like Ta Mone, Tamone Toch and Ta Krabey.

Worse still, the timing is no coincidence. The poll was released just days after Samdech Techo Hun Sen predicted possible leadership changes in Thailand—statements that struck a nerve in Bangkok. Instead of addressing the substance of his remarks, Thai media and pollsters moved quickly to undermine his credibility, deflecting domestic instability onto an external “enemy.”

But let us ask plainly: Is it interference to speak out when a neighboring country violates your borders? Is it provocation to defend your nation’s cultural heritage? Or is it simply leadership—fearless and forthright?

A Voice for Sovereignty, Not Subversion
Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s recent statements stem from a deep and legitimate concern for Cambodia’s sovereignty, security, and historical integrity. When he warned of instability in Thai politics, it was not meddling—it was a calculated message from a seasoned geopolitical mind. His words, far from being speculative, were a strategic call for caution and responsibility before tensions spiral further out of control.

The Thai response has revealed a troubling fragility. A confident, mature government does not panic over external analysis—it counters it with truth, diplomacy, and respect. Character assassination via polling only betrays weakness and deflection.

Standing with a Builder of Peace
Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s legacy cannot be erased by a poll designed to fan nationalist sentiment. He is the architect of Cambodia’s peace, a respected voice in ASEAN, and a defender of justice in the face of aggression. He has never bowed to pressure—be it foreign or domestic—and his leadership continues to serve as a pillar of stability in an increasingly volatile region.

While certain Thai circles may attempt to vilify him to distract from their own internal fractures, the Cambodian people—and many across the region—know who truly stands for peace, sovereignty, and regional dignity.

This is not about popularity in a foreign poll. It is about principle, experience, and the rare courage to speak truth to power—even when that truth exposes uncomfortable realities.

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

Source : Khmer Times