Cambodian opposition figure's daughter appointed PM's envoy in rare concession

Kem Monovithya, daughter of recently pardoned opposition leader Kem Sokha, has been appointed special envoy to Prime Minister Hun Manet, according to a royal decree. This move represents a rare concession in Cambodia's political arena, where the ruling Cambodian People's Party has long been accused of suppressing opposition.

The newly created role gives Kem Monovithya a rank equivalent to a minister. The decree, signed by King Norodom Sihamoni, did not specify her duties but was reportedly requested by Hun Manet. Her father, Kem Sokha, was pardoned in May after losing his appeal against a 27-year prison sentence for treason, a charge he denied.

Kem Sokha was arrested in 2017 on accusations of conspiring with the United States to overthrow then-Prime Minister Hun Sen, Hun Manet's father. His Cambodia National Rescue Party was subsequently dissolved, leading many members into exile or imprisonment. Kem Monovithya, a former member of the CNRP, is 44 years old.

Prime Minister Hun Manet, 48, shared a photo on Facebook with Kem Monovithya, calling her his "sister." He expressed hope for collaboration on national betterment, particularly on the international stage. This appointment comes shortly after Hun Sen, now Senate president, posted a picture of himself meeting with Kem Sokha, with Kem Monovithya also present.

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As a new generation of politicians alike, there are some things we can collaborate on for the betterment of our country, especially on the international stage.