AKP Phnom Penh, March 18, 2025 --

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet recalled the root cause of Cambodia’s disaster, saying that 55 years ago (Mar. 18, 1970), the coup d’état turned the Kingdom into civil war until December 1998. 
“The coup d’état that overthrew then-Head of State, Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, marks the beginning of Cambodia’s civil war. However, today (Mar. 18, 2025), all Cambodian citizens live under the shadow of peace and national unity as we continue to build and develop our nation,” the Premier emphasised at the first Forum between the Royal Government and Sub-National Administrations on “Decentralisation and Deconcentration Reforms to Achieve Cambodia’s Vision 2025,” held at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel and via Zoom on Tuesday.  

The coup d’état on Mar. 18, 1970 was a pivotal event that plunged Cambodia into years of turmoil or deadly conflict until April 17, 1975. This ultimately led to the brutal Khmer Rouge regime until Jan. 7, 1979. 

The genocidal regime was ousted from Phnom Penh, but the civil war continued, causing loss of life and hindering development until the complete peace on Dec. 29, 1998 thanks to the Win-Win Policy initiated by Former Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen who now serves as President of the Senate.

“Fifty-five years ago, our nation's future became uncertain. But today, we sit here in peace, united in our efforts to better serve our people. It is a day to recognise the difference, to reflect on our progress, and to celebrate what we have achieved together," underlined Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister.

By Heng Panha