The prime minister of Cambodia, Hun Sen, who is one of the world’s longest-serving leaders, has announced he will resign as prime minister and hand over to his son in coming weeks.
The announcement came three days after his party won all the seats at an uncompetitive election.
Analysts say, Hun Sen at 70, has become increasingly authoritarian after nearly four-decades of rule.
He first flagged a transition in 2021, but until Wednesday, no one knew when that would take place.
His eldest son, Hun Manet, has long been groomed for the role and was the commander of the Royal Cambodian Army until recently.
On Wednesday, Hun Sen said his son would be appointed prime minister on 10 August.
In a state television, he said “I would like to ask for understanding from the people as I announce that I will not continue as prime minister,”
He said he would be stepping down as staying in office could cause instability.
However, he will retain leadership of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party, a position political analysts say still gives him ultimate control.
Earlier on Wednesday, Hun Sen was seen in a visit to the Cambodian monarch’s palace to announce the news.
Hun Manet, 45, took a leading role in campaigning for the 23 July election this year- and was often spotted leading rallies next to his father, who has ruled the Southeast Asian nation of 16 million people since 1985.
There were 17 other parties on the ballot but they were all too small, new or aligned with the CPP to be considered a real alternative for voters.
Chioma Kalu
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