Phnom penh: The Spokesperson of the Royal Government of Cambodia has strongly condemned a series of disrespectful acts in Thailand targeting Cambodian leaders, calling them ‘morally unacceptable and unworthy and undignified as human beings.’ According to a statement issued this afternoon by the Spokesperson of the Royal Government of Cambodia, some Thai individuals took portraits of the Cambodian top leaders, such as Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State and President of the Senate, and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, as well as military leaders for acts of insult and degradation.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the images were reportedly displayed on banners used in shooting games where participants competed for prizes, and also attached to scarecrows that were struck and insulted with offensive language in public. The Spokesperson expressed deep regret and outrage over such acts, emphasising that they contradict the long-standing values of mutual respect between the Thai and Cambodian peoples. The statement reminded that both nations share deep cultural roots and a strong reverence for their monarchies and leaders.
In this regard, the Spokesperson recalled that Cambodian leaders have repeatedly urged their citizens to refrain from any action that might offend Thailand or its leadership. In the past, Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet have publicly appealed to Cambodians not to misuse images of the Thai King or any Thai leader, nor to engage in discriminatory behaviour against Thai nationals living and working in Cambodia.
Despite the recent provocations, the statement highlighted that on Oct. 6, 2025, Samdech Techo Hun Sen once again called on Cambodians to remain calm and not retaliate. This, the government noted, demonstrates Cambodia’s consistent commitment to peace, dignity, and respect for neighbouring countries. The Spokesperson stressed that although Cambodia is a small nation with limited resources, its leadership stands firm on principles of peaceful coexistence and the pursuit of ‘borders of peace, friendship, cooperation, and development.’ The Royal Government reaffirmed that Cambodia does not consider any neighbouring country as an enemy, and continues to advocate for moral conduct and regional harmony.