Hun Sen Says Border Issues Should Not Disrupt National Life

Hun Sen Says Border Issues Should Not Disrupt National Life

PHNOM PENH, April 14, 2026 — Cambodia’s Senate President and Acting Head of State Hun Sen has called on the public to continue celebrating the Khmer New Year and maintaining normal economic and social activities despite ongoing border tensions.

In a message released on Tuesday, Hun Sen said that challenges affecting parts of the Cambodia–Thailand border should not disrupt the broader functioning of the country, using the metaphor that “an injury to one finger should not disable the whole body.”

He acknowledged difficulties faced by armed forces and displaced civilians in border areas but stressed that the rest of the population — more than 17 million people — should not be forced to halt daily life or economic activity.

“Should markets, businesses, factories, farms and schools all be shut down?” he said, rejecting calls to scale back nationwide celebrations.

Hun Sen criticised what he described as “extremist” voices opposing public festivities, arguing that such views risk undermining national morale and economic stability.

He added that ongoing Khmer New Year celebrations across the country demonstrate public resilience and unity, while inviting critics to join the festivities both inside and outside Cambodia.

Cambodia is currently celebrating its traditional New Year, one of the country’s most important holidays, as authorities balance public celebrations with security concerns linked to border developments.

The remarks highlight the government’s effort to maintain economic continuity and social stability while managing localized tensions.