140-468: Sangkum era Later political career Norodom Sihanouk ( / ˈ s iː h ə n ʊ k / ; 31 October 1922 – 15 October 2012) was a member of the Cambodian royal house who led the country as King and Prime Minister . In Cambodia , he is known as Samdech Euv (meaning "King Father"). During his lifetime, Cambodia was under various regimes, from French colonial rule (until 1953),
280-579: A Japanese puppet state (1945), an independent kingdom (1953–1970), a military republic (1970–1975), the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979), a Vietnamese-backed communist regime (1979–1989), a transitional communist regime (1989–1993) to eventually another kingdom (since 1993). Sihanouk was the only child of Prince Norodom Suramarit and Princess Sisowath Kossamak , daughter of King Sisowath Monivong . When his grandfather Monivong died in 1941, Sihanouk became king amidst French colonial rule. After
420-867: A Khmer Republic being proclaimed, exacerbating the Cambodian Civil War , Sihamoni remained in Czechoslovakia. Between 1971 and 1975, Sihamoni completed his higher education in classical dance and music at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague , culminating with the attainment of a Master's degree for which he wrote a thesis titled The Conception and Administration of Artistic Schools in Cambodia. After graduation in 1975, he left Prague and began to study filmmaking in North Korea at
560-475: A Marxist utopia – are therefore drawing to a close at the same time. Sheridan's reflection captured the symbolism of the moment in Cambodia's monarchical transition as these two indelible chapters etched into its national story; the undisputed significance of King Sihanouk's influential rule and the undeniably traumatic genocidal rule of the Khmer Rouge are juxtaposed with one another as the country entered
700-565: A classical ballet instructor when he was still a prince. During his reign, Sihamoni has continued his cultural advocacy alongside supporting various philanthropic causes, while balancing his role as a constitutional monarch amid Cambodia's political developments. Sihamoni was born on Thursday 14 May 1953, in Phnom Penh , Cambodia , when it was still a colonial protectorate within French Indochina . The prince's birth at
840-422: A constitutional monarchy by vesting policy-making powers in the prime minister rather than the king. He viewed socialism as an ideal concept for establishing social equality and fostering national cohesion within newly independent Cambodia. In March 1956, he embarked on a national programme of " Buddhist socialism ", promoting socialist principles on the one hand while maintaining the kingdom's Buddhist culture on
980-654: A shadow government made up of Sangkum legislators with left-wing sympathies. At the end of the month, Lon Nol offered to resign from his position, but was stopped from doing so by Sihanouk. In April 1967, the Samlaut Uprising occurred, with local peasants fighting against government troops in Samlaut, Battambang . As soon as government troops managed to quell the fighting, Sihanouk began to suspect that three left-wing Sangkum legislators – Khieu Samphan, Hou Yuon and Hu Nim – had incited
1120-483: A supreme patriarch of Cambodia. In the early 1990s, Cambodia's Supreme National Council, which was recognized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 668 as part of the transitional process in the country under the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements , unanimously selected Prince Sihamoni in 1992 as its permanent representative to the United Nations , which he served until 1993. That same year of 1993 saw
1260-525: A Cambodian court for espionage due to his leaking sensitive flight-related details of Thaksin to Thai officials. Around that time, Thaksin was living in exile abroad despite being a wanted fugitive for corruption in his homeland, which he challenged. He also served as an advisor to the Cambodian government, which publicly backed Thaksin and resisted the extradition attempt from the Thai government . For
1400-501: A citizenry militia which attracted about 130,000 recruits. In August 1953, France agreed to cede control over judicial and interior affairs to Cambodia, and in October 1953 the defense ministry as well. At the end of October, Sihanouk went to Phnom Penh, where he declared Cambodia's independence from France on 9 November 1953. In May 1954, Sihanouk sent two of his cabinet ministers, Nhiek Tioulong and Tep Phan, to represent Cambodia at
1540-759: A coup, which led to Thanh becoming prime minister. When the French returned to Cambodia in October 1945, Thanh was dismissed and replaced by Sihanouk's uncle Sisowath Monireth . Monireth negotiated for greater autonomy in managing Cambodia's internal affairs. A modus vivendi signed in January 1946 granted Cambodia autonomy within the French Union . A joint French-Cambodian commission was set up after that to draft Cambodia's constitution, and in April 1946 Sihanouk introduced clauses which provided for an elected parliament on
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#17327725643711680-578: A debate. Five of them attended. At the debate, held at the Royal Palace , Sihanouk spoke in a belligerent tone, challenging the Democrat leaders to present evidence of malfeasance in his government and inviting them to join the Sangkum. The Democrat leaders gave hesitant responses, and, according to American historian David P. Chandler , this gave the audience the impression that they were disloyal to
1820-780: A family member in the incident, as well as financially supporting those who were injured. In 2016, he donated a record-breaking $ 6.5 million from the proceeds that was gained from the selling of the royal residence in Koh Kong to the Kantha Bopha Foundation , which oversees a group of nationally renowned children's hospitals. Furthermore, in 2018, upon learning of the plight of provincial people affected by flooding, he gave essential goods to over 500 families. At times, he has even assisted his fellow citizens first-hand during adverse events, such as venturing out into flooded areas and handing out goods to victims directly and
1960-676: A few years back in the 2017 communal elections . Several political parties expressed appreciation for the King's public appeal. The communal elections result saw a victory for the ruling CPP, although the Candlelight Party , which has links with the dissolved CNRP, made some relatively surprising gains. At the ASEAN summit in November 2022, Sihamoni hosted regional leaders at the royal palace where he reinforced Cambodia's commitment to
2100-526: A full pardon to Chakra in 2010. In late 2009, amid then-strained diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand , Sihamoni pardoned a Thai national, Siwarak Chutipongse, on humanitarian grounds after a request by multiple parties, including Siwarak's mother, the Pheu Thai Party and former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra . Siwarak had been controversially charged and jailed by
2240-546: A keen interest in the arts early on in his life. In 1962, the young Sihamoni was sent to Prague in Czechoslovakia by his father to study abroad. There, he completed his early education at Majakovskeho Primary School and later at Ostrovni Elementary School. When he was in his preadolescence years, he starred in a production of Pyotr Tchaikovsky 's The Nutcracker at the prestigious Prague National Theatre , where he pursued private ballet and piano classes and
2380-531: A king of the people by saying: My august father, at the very moment of my election as King of Cambodia by the highly respected Throne Council , said to me... 'it is by being in contact with the people and the realities of the country that one learns how to become more and more capable of serving, defending and developing Cambodia and the Cambodian nation.' My respected and beloved compatriots, I will always be your faithful and devoted servant. I will never live apart from my beloved people. The Royal House will remain
2520-414: A new historical era under the reign of King Sihamoni. He was then inaugurated and formally appointed as King on 29 October 2004 in a coronation ceremony centered at the Royal Palace in the capital . The coronation was noted for its relative simplicity, which was specifically requested by King-Father Sihanouk. King Sihamoni himself did not want the ceremonies to be too lavish because he did not wish for
2660-461: A new position as Chief of State of Cambodia . Officially neutral in foreign relations, Sihanouk was closer to the communist bloc in practice. The 1970 Cambodian coup d'état ousted him, and he fled to China and North Korea, forming a government-in-exile and a resistance movement there. He encouraged Cambodians to fight the new government and backed the Khmer Rouge during the Cambodian Civil War . He returned as figurehead head of state after
2800-466: A number of the songs he wrote. Some of his songs were about his wife Monique , the nations neighboring Cambodia, and the communist leaders who supported him in his exile. In the 1980s, Sihanouk held concerts for diplomats in New York City. He also participated in concerts at his palace during his second reign. Sihanouk is remembered for his role in shaping modern Cambodia, particularly in leading
2940-413: A perception that Sihamoni tends to be overseas to avoid having to give his signature to highly contentious legislations and that such trips are supposedly timed, which then trigger a delegation of responsibility to the next constitutional office holder. It is theorized that the reason for this is that caught between the dilemmas of his position to concurrently not politically interfere and to also serve as
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#17327725643713080-421: A political guarantor, these absences are a way for the King to meet a middle ground through the "symbolic denial of royal legitimacy." However, the question still remains as to whether they constitute as "legitimate absences or absent legitimacy." Interestingly, a few years prior in 2015, with respect to the then draft Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organisations (LANGO), which was equally controversial,
3220-762: A position which he held for almost two decades, at various conservatoires , including the Marius Petipa Conservatory, the Gabriel Faure Conservatory and the W.A. Mozart Conservatory. He was also later president of the Khmer Dance Association there. He lived in France for nearly 20 years and continued his pursuit in the arts, establishing 'Ballet Deva', an original dance troupe, in which he served as its General Manager and Artistic Director , alongside heading
3360-498: A symbol of national reconciliation", thereby restoring the "monarchy's traditional role as an 'umbrella' under which Cambodians could unite." In turn, observers argue that this limits any politicization of the monarchy as an institution whilst maintaining its neutrality as well as legitimacy, especially amid the context of the sometimes controversial and turbulent nature of Cambodian politics . Nevertheless, there have been several occasions where Sihamoni's reluctance to be involved in
3500-453: A time, there was a "culture of dialogue" between the rival political parties. This period of dialogue was relatively short-lived as tensions soon manifested again that culminated in the dissolution of the CNRP in late 2017 and the reallocation of the party's seats that they won in the general election to other political parties in concurrence with the gradual persecution of members associated with
3640-559: A trade embargo on Cambodia, preventing trading ships from travelling up the Mekong river to Phnom Penh . While Sihanouk professed that he was pursuing a policy of neutrality , Sarit and Diem remained distrustful of him, more so after he established formal diplomatic relations with China in 1958. The Democratic party continued to criticize the Sangkum and Sihanouk in their newspaper, much to Sihanouk's consternation. In August 1957, Sihanouk finally lost patience, calling out Democrat leaders for
3780-460: A transparent house and for me there will never be an ivory tower. In the first six months after his coronation, Sihamoni ensured to pay regular visits to his fellow Cambodians, especially those in the provinces and countryside, including occasionally making surprise visits. He was praised by observers for "being close to the people and having a gentle touch", though they also noted he still needed time to independently carve out his role as monarch amid
3920-465: A view to winning left-wing support from the Pracheachon. The Pracheachon on their part fielded five candidates for the elections. However, four of them withdrew, as they were prevented by the national police from holding any election rallies. When voting took place, the Sangkum won all seats in the national assembly. In December 1958 Ngo Dinh Nhu , Diem's younger brother and chief adviser, broached
4060-527: Is neither in the long-term interests of the monarchy nor nation, and Sihamoni, since the outset of his reign, has pledged and adhered to a largely apolitical stance. Indeed, during the monarchical selection process, King Sihanouk touted then Prince Sihamoni's neutral and impartial approach to politics as a key trait for why he is suited to the role. This is reinforced by analysis from observers that Sihamoni "has represented both continuity and change — withdrawing royalty from active politics, but advancing it as
4200-410: Is of Khmer , French and Corsican descent, had been one of King Norodom Sihanouk's consorts after being a constant companion since the day they met in 1951 when she won first prize in a national beauty contest. The queen was granted the title of Neak Moneang and the name of Monineath at the time of her marriage to King Norodom Sihanouk in 1952. Furthermore, Queen Monineath is a step-granddaughter of
4340-454: Is the eldest son of King Sihanouk and former Queen consort Norodom Monineath and is the fourth monarch from the royal House of Norodom . Before his selection by a nine-member throne council as the next monarch, Sihamoni served as Cambodia's ambassador to the United Nations and UNESCO . He was educated in Czechoslovakia and was known for his work as a cultural ambassador in Europe and as
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4480-756: The 2017 communal elections . Nonetheless, officials of the ruling CPP denied such speculation and insist that the King's trip were non-politically motivated. Similarly, in February 2018, about the Lèse-majesté Law, which too had concerns expressed about it by various observers, speculation was fuelled again, when the King did not directly sign this legislation into law, due to a planned foreign trip. Some analysts maintained that this did not merely occur by chance, though others cautioned that such an assumption cannot be verified without actual official confirmation. Regardless, commentators noted that it added to
4620-487: The Cambodian royal family to his advisory court, among them his half-brother and former Prime Minister Prince Norodom Ranariddh as chief advisor and president of the council. Other choices included Prince Sisowath Sirirath , Princess Norodom Marie (estranged wife of Prince Ranariddh ) and Prince Sisowath Thomico . The King's half-sister and Cambodia's former Ambassador to Malaysia , Princess Norodom Arunrasmy and uncle, Prince Norodom Sirivudh serve as members on
4760-489: The Communist Party of Kampuchea , suspected that Samouth had been secretly captured and killed by police. Sihanouk nevertheless allowed Sangkum's left-wing politicians to run again in the 1962 general elections , which they all won. He even appointed two left-wing politicians, Hou Yuon and Khieu Samphan , as secretaries for planning and commerce, respectively, after the election. In November 1962, Sihanouk called on
4900-532: The François Baudoin school and Nuon Moniram school in Phnom Penh. During this time, he received financial support from his maternal grandfather, Sisowath Monivong , to head an amateur performance troupe and soccer team. In 1936, Sihanouk was sent to Saigon , where he pursued his secondary education at Lycée Chasseloup Laubat, a boarding school. When the reigning king Monivong died on 23 April 1941
5040-512: The Geneva Conference . The agreements affirmed Cambodia's independence and allowed it to seek military aid from any country without restrictions. At the same time, Sihanouk's relations with the governing Democrat party remained strained, as they were wary of his growing political influence. To counter Democrat opposition, Sihanouk held a national referendum to gauge public approval for his efforts to seek national independence. While
5180-727: The Governor-General of French Indochina , Jean Decoux , chose Sihanouk to succeed him. Sihanouk's appointment as king was formalised the following day by the Cambodian Crown Council, and his coronation ceremony took place on 3 May 1941. During the Japanese occupation of Cambodia , he dedicated most of his time to sports, filming, and the occasional tour to the countryside. In March 1945 the Japanese military, which had occupied Cambodia since August 1941, dissolved
5320-477: The Japanese occupation of Cambodia during World War II , he secured Cambodian independence from France in 1953. He abdicated in 1955 and was succeeded by his father, Suramarit, so as to directly participate in politics. Sihanouk's political organization Sangkum won the general elections that year, and he became prime minister of Cambodia . He governed the country under one-party rule and suppressed political dissent. After his father died in 1960, Sihanouk assumed
5460-620: The Khmer Issarak . Sihanouk ordered the Democrat-led government to arrest Thanh but was ignored. Subsequently, civil demonstrations against the monarchy and the French broke out in the countryside, alarming Sihanouk, who began to suspect that the Democrats were complicit. In June 1952 Sihanouk dismissed the Democrat nominee Huy Kanthoul and made himself prime minister. A few days later, Sihanouk privately confided in exasperation to
5600-669: The Khmer Renovation Party party of Lon Nol , the People's Party and the Liberal Party . At the same time, Sihanouk was running out of patience with the increasingly leftist Democratic Party and the left-wing Pracheachon , as both had refused to merge into his party and had campaigned against him. He appointed as director of national security Dap Chhuon, who ordered the national police to jail their leaders and break up their election rallies. When elections were held,
5740-999: The Minister of the Overseas , Jean Letourneau , who promptly rejected it. Subsequently, Sihanouk traveled to Canada and the United States, where he gave radio interviews to present his case. He took advantage of the prevailing anti-communist sentiment in those countries, arguing that Cambodia faced a Communist threat similar to that of the Viet Minh in Vietnam, and that the solution was to grant full independence to Cambodia. Sihanouk returned to Cambodia in June 1953, taking up residence in Siem Reap . He organised public rallies calling for Cambodians to fight for independence, and formed
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5880-531: The Myanmar conflict , the impact of increasing tensions between global powers , the threat of nuclear weapons , climate change , and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic . In February 2023, several months ahead of the 23 July general election , Sihamoni once again advocated, as he has done in prior years, for electoral participation amongst the public and for free elections to take place. His call
6020-532: The President of the Senate , who constitutionally serves as the acting head of state in the King's absence. This then prompted speculation as to whether there was an underlying reason behind the timing of his overseas trip. During the legislative processes that was taking place to enact this law, a letter additionally emerged, of which Sihamoni had encouraged for all Cambodians to vote without intimidation ahead of
6160-582: The Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation . In his line of work, he placed emphasis on giving opportunities for men to feature more prominently in traditional Khmer dance where they are often not assigned leading roles when he created "Duel", a unique ballet style inspired by the Russian ballet . During this overseas period, for a time, he also entered into the monkhood under the auspices of Samdech Bour Kry , who would later become
6300-415: The Royal Palace to welcome the soon-to-be King. Then-Prince Sihamoni's accession to the throne was reflected upon by journalist Michael Sheridan of The Sunday Times whom on 17 October 2004 remarked: The extraordinary story of the aesthete who flies home this week to become king of Cambodia — and of the men who nearly had him killed — can be summed up for most people in the capital, Phnom Penh by
6440-881: The UN Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) was established the following year. The UNTAC organized the general elections in 1993, and a coalition government, jointly led by his son Norodom Ranariddh and Hun Sen , was subsequently formed. Sihanouk was reinstated as Cambodia's king. He abdicated again in 2004, and the Royal Council of the Throne chose his son Sihamoni as his successor. Sihanouk died in Beijing in 2012. Between 1941 and 2006, Sihanouk produced and directed 50 films, some of which he acted in. The films, later described as being of low quality, often featured nationalistic elements, as did
6580-775: The Vietnam War . In June 1969, he extended diplomatic recognition to the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam (PRGSV), hoping that he could get the Viet Cong troops under its charge to leave Cambodia should they win the war. At the same time, he also openly admitted the presence of Viet Cong troops in Cambodia for the first time, prompting the US to restore formal diplomatic relations with Cambodia three months later. As
6720-490: The bloc of nations and emphasized the continued importance of inter-state collaboration in addressing contemporary issues. Later, at the interrelated 43rd General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly , he further touched upon several topics. This included the centrality of peace in relation to socio-economic development, healthcare and educational investment, concern regarding
6860-501: The national assembly attacked the government led by prime minister Penn Nouth over its failure to resolve deepening financial and corruption problems plaguing the country. The dissenting legislators, led by Yem Sambaur , who had defected from the Democratic Party in November 1948, deposed Penn Nouth. Yem Sambaur replaced him, but his appointment did not sit well with the Democrats, who in turn pressured Sihanouk to dissolve
7000-541: The political crisis arising from that year's election In the lead-up to the 2013 Cambodian general election , Sihamoni at the request of the government, granted a royal pardon which enabled then Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy , who had been in self-imposed exile since 2009, to partake in the election which was welcomed by the United Nations . Prior to the pardoning, Rainsy had found himself in legal jeopardy once again due to another politically-motivated charge brought against him arising from an incident in 2009. When
7140-556: The CNRP members of parliaments who had up until then, refused to assume their seats in the National Assembly because of the dispute, though he had earlier officiated Prime Minister Sen's and CPP lawmakers' swearing-in ceremony in September of the previous year due to a constitutional necessity. He later encouraged the two sides to "continue to work together for the sake of stability, development and national unity" and for
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#17327725643717280-497: The CNRP. In the same year, a piece of legislation was introduced, named the Political Parties Law, that human rights organisations saw as a means of further curtailing the power of the opposition in the run-up to the 2018 Cambodian general election . When it came to the formalization of this law through the required royal assent, Sihamoni was coincidentally overseas, thereby delegating the royal assent duties to
7420-554: The Cambodian economy was stagnating due to systemic corruption, Sihanouk opened two casinos – in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville – in January 1969. While the casinos satisfied his aim of generating state revenues of up to 700 million riels in that year, it also caused a sharp increase in the number of bankruptcies and suicides. In August 1969 Lon Nol was reappointed as Prime Minister, with Sisowath Sirik Matak as his deputy. Two months later, Lon Nol left Cambodia to seek medical treatment, leaving Sirik Matak to run
7560-641: The Chinese embassy from disseminating Communist propaganda. In response, Sihanouk closed the Cambodia–Chinese Friendship Association in September 1967. When the Chinese government protested, Sihanouk threatened to close the Chinese embassy in Cambodia. Zhou stepped in to placate Sihanouk, and compromised by instructing its embassy to send its publications to Cambodia's information ministry for vetting prior to distribution. As relations with China worsened, Sihanouk pursued rapprochement with
7700-520: The French government for more autonomy for Cambodia. The modus vivendi was replaced by a new Franco-Khmer treaty, which recognised Cambodia as "independent" within the French Union. In practice, the treaty granted only limited self-rule to Cambodia. While Cambodia was given free rein in managing its foreign ministry and, to a lesser extent, its defence, most of the other ministries remained under French control. Meanwhile, dissenting legislators from
7840-548: The Khmer Rouge's victory in 1975. His relations with the new government soured, and in 1976 he resigned. He was placed under house arrest until Vietnamese forces overthrew the Khmer Rouge in 1979. Sihanouk went into exile again and in 1981 formed FUNCINPEC , a resistance party. The following year, he became president of the Coalition Government of Democratic Kampuchea (CGDK), a broad coalition of anti-Vietnamese resistance factions which retained Cambodia's seat at
7980-460: The King demonstrated constraints associated with the above-mentioned theory. In 2018, Sihamoni urged for Cambodians to vote in the national elections, notwithstanding calls made by exiled Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy to resist such a move and for the public to boycott the election. After the year's general election and senate election , which saw the ruling CPP retaining power, winning virtually every seat in both houses of parliament, much to
8120-482: The King did sign this into law. This is despite the unprecedented action taken by Cambodian civil society , specifically by 26 non-governmental organisations , to directly lobby Sihamoni to not give his royal assent. They had cited his constitutional imperative as a "guarantor" and the proposed law's restrictive effects on their collective ability to function effectively as key reasons for why he should agree to their request. To that end, their failed attempt in petitioning
8260-589: The Lon Nol regime. In Phnom Penh, a military trial convened on 2 July 1970, whereby Sihanouk was charged with treason and corruption in his capacity as Head of State. After a three-day trial, the judges ruled Sihanouk guilty of both charges and sentenced to him death in absentia on 5 July 1970. Kingdom of Cambodia (1953%E2%80%931970) Too Many Requests If you report this error to the Wikimedia System Administrators, please include
8400-654: The National Academy of Cinematography in Pyongyang . The fall of Phnom Penh on 17 April 1975 led to the demise of the Khmer Republic and the creation of Democratic Kampuchea by the Khmer Rouge who oversaw a brutal campaign of genocide . In the following year of 1976, Sihamoni was forced to come back to Cambodia after having been deceived by the Khmer Rouge with a forged telegram, undersigned by King Sihanouk ordering his return. Immediately,
8540-550: The National Assembly to answer corruption charges. On that night after the hearing, Mannorine ordered troops under his command to arrest Lon Nol and Sirik Matak, but ended up getting arrested by Lon Nol's troops instead. On 18 March 1970 the National Assembly voted to depose Sihanouk, allowing Lon Nol to assume emergency powers . On that day, Sihanouk was in Moscow meeting Soviet prime minister Alexei Kosygin , who broke
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#17327725643718680-425: The Sangkum received 83 percent of all valid votes. They took up all seats in the National Assembly, replacing the Democrats, which had until then been the majority party. The following month, Sihanouk was appointed as prime minister. Once in office, Sihanouk introduced several constitutional changes, including extending suffrage to women, adopting Khmer as the sole official language of the country and making Cambodia
8820-414: The Sangkum should be seen as a political "organisation", and explained that he could accommodate people with differing political orientations on the sole condition that they pledged fealty to the monarchy. The creation of the Sangkum was seen as a move to dissolve the political parties. Sangkum was based on four small, monarchist, rightist parties, including the 'Victorious North-East' party of Dap Chhuon ,
8960-435: The US chargé d'affaires, Thomas Gardiner Corcoran , that parliamentary democracy was unsuitable for Cambodia. In January 1953, Sihanouk re-appointed Penn Nouth as prime minister before leaving for France. Once there, Sihanouk wrote to French President Vincent Auriol requesting that he grant Cambodia full independence, citing widespread anti-French sentiment among the Cambodian populace. Auriol deferred Sihanouk's request to
9100-467: The US government protested Sihanouk's celebrations, he responded by recalling the Cambodian ambassador to the US, Nong Kimny. In early 1964, Sihanouk signed a secret agreement with North Vietnam and the Viet Cong , allowing Chinese military aid meant for them to be delivered through Sihanoukville's port . In turn, the Cambodian army would be paid for delivering food supplies to the Viet Cong, and at
9240-689: The US in May 1965. As a result of this secret agreement, Communist countries, including China, the Soviet Union , and Czechoslovakia , provided military aid to Cambodia. In September 1966, general elections were held, and Sangkum legislators with conservative and right-wing sympathies dominated the national assembly. In turn, they nominated Lon Nol , a military general who shared their political sympathies, as prime minister. However, their choice did not sit well with Sihanouk. To counterbalance conservative and right-wing influence, in October 1966 Sihanouk set up
9380-528: The US to stop supporting the Khmer Serei , which he believed they had been secretly doing through the CIA. He threatened to reject all economic aid from the US if they failed to respond to his demands, a threat he later carried out on 19 November 1963. At the same time, Sihanouk also nationalised the country's entrepot trade, banking sector, and distillery industries. To oversee policy and regulatory matters on
9520-674: The US was attempting to undermine his government and that it was lending covert support to the Democratic party, now without parliamentary representation, for that purpose. Sihanouk developed a good impression of China, whose premier, Zhou Enlai , gave him a warm reception on his first visit there in February 1956. They signed a friendship treaty in which China promised US$ 40 million in economic aid to Cambodia. When Sihanouk returned from China, Sarit Thanarat and Ngo Dinh Diem , leaders of Thailand and South Vietnam , respectively, both with pro-American sympathies, started to accuse him of pro-Communist sympathies. South Vietnam briefly imposed
9660-527: The US, hinted at the presence of Viet Cong troops in Cambodia, and suggested he would turn a blind eye should US forces enter Cambodia to attack Viet Cong troops retreating into Cambodia from South Vietnam—a practice known as " hot pursuit "—provided that Cambodians were unharmed. Silhanouk told Bowles that he disliked the Vietnamese as a people, saying he had no love for any Vietnamese, red, blue, North or South". Kenton Clymer notes that this statement "cannot reasonably be construed to mean that Sihanouk approved of
9800-453: The US. He learned that Kennedy's widow, Jacqueline Kennedy , had expressed a desire to see Angkor Wat . Seeing this as an opportunity to restore relations with the US, Sihanouk invited her to visit Cambodia and personally hosted her visit in October 1967. Jacqueline Kennedy's visit paved the way for Sihanouk to meet with Chester Bowles , the US ambassador to India. To Bowles, Sihanouk expressed his willingness to restore bilateral relations with
9940-542: The US. The following January, when he was in the Philippines on a state visit, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) operatives attempted to sway him into placing Cambodia under Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) protection. US Secretary of State John Foster Dulles went to great efforts to convince Sihanouk, however he refused because "I considered SEATO an aggressive military alliance directed against neighbors whose ideology I did not share but with whom Cambodia had no quarrel". Subsequently, Sihanouk began to suspect that
10080-702: The United Nations, making him Cambodia's internationally recognized head of state. In the late 1980s, informal talks were carried out to end hostilities between the Vietnam-supported People's Republic of Kampuchea and the CGDK. In 1990, the Supreme National Council of Cambodia was formed as a transitional body to oversee Cambodia's sovereign matters, with Sihanouk as its president. The 1991 Paris Peace Accords were signed, and
10220-423: The army to capture Chhuon, who was summarily executed as soon as he was captured, effectively ending the coup attempt. Sihanouk then accused South Vietnam and the United States of orchestrating the coup attempt. Six months later, on 31 August 1959, a small packaged lacquer gift fitted with a parcel bomb was delivered to the royal palace. Norodom Vakrivan , the chief of protocol, was killed instantly when he opened
10360-536: The basis of universal male suffrage as well as press freedom . The first constitution was signed into effect by Sihanouk in May 1947. Around this time, Sihanouk made two trips to Saumur , France, where he attended military training at the Armoured Cavalry Branch Training School in 1946, and again in 1948. He was made a reserve captain in the French army. In early 1949, Sihanouk traveled to Paris with his parents to negotiate with
10500-482: The consternation of members of the now-dissolved opposition, international observers and human rights groups, whom all voiced unease about the deteriorating state of political affairs in the country, not least, the lack of a viable opposition, Sihamoni convened the opening of the national legislature. He had urged parliamentarians in both the National Assembly and Senate to protect the rights of all Cambodians and seek ways to bring about national unity and in bettering
10640-585: The conviction verdict against opposition-affiliated journalist and editor Hang Chakra , who was jailed on charges of "criminal disinformation", sought the government's support for a prospective royal pardon. The appeals were made to him in his capacity as a member of the Supreme Council of the Magistracy . This request was reportedly rejected by the government for reasons not stated, but it was eventually later accepted, of which Sihamoni went on to grant
10780-538: The council as well. As royalism has long been a staple in Cambodian political history, with periods where royalist parties had once governed the country, such as the Sangkum of then-Prince Sihanouk in the 1950s and 1960s and the FUNCINPEC party of Prince Ranariddh in the 1990s, the appointments was seen at the time by observers as signaling the cessation of royal family members participating in politics. This
10920-722: The country to independence, although his reputation was damaged by his association with the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. Norodom Sihanouk was the only child born of the union between Norodom Suramarit and Sisowath Kossamak . His parents, who heeded the Royal Court Astrologer's advice that he risked dying at a young age if he was raised under parental care, placed him under the care of Kossamak's grandmother, Pat. When Pat died, Kossamak brought Sihanouk to live with his paternal grandfather, Norodom Sutharot. Sutharot delegated parenting responsibilities to his daughter, Norodom Ket Kanyamom. Sihanouk received his primary education at
11060-501: The country's entrepot trade, he set up the National Export-Import Corporation and Statutory Board, better known as "SONEXIM". When Sarit, Diem, and US president John F. Kennedy died in November and December 1963, Sihanouk rejoiced over their deaths, as he accused them of attempting to destabilise Cambodia. He organised concerts and granted civil servants extra leave time to celebrate the occasion. When
11200-618: The country. Non Suon's criticisms gave Sihanouk the impetus to arrest Pracheachon leaders, and, according to him, he had discovered plans by their party to monitor local political developments on behalf of foreign powers. That same year Sihanouk attended the 1st Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement , making Cambodia one of the founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement . In May 1962 Tou Samouth , Pracheachon's secretary-general, disappeared, and its ideological ally,
11340-439: The details below. Request from 172.68.168.133 via cp1102 cp1102, Varnish XID 526589566 Upstream caches: cp1102 int Error: 429, Too Many Requests at Thu, 28 Nov 2024 05:42:44 GMT Sihamoni Norodom Sihamoni ( Khmer : នរោត្តម សីហមុនី , [nɔˈroːɗɑm səjˈhamoniː] ; born 14 May 1953) is King of Cambodia . He became King on 14 October 2004, a week after the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk . He
11480-490: The election outcome became disputed between the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), the subsequent aftermath resulted in the 2013–2014 Cambodian protests . Consequently, in what is regarded as the first time he had intervened directly to try to resolve a political dispute, the King attempted to play a mediating role and urged for national reconciliation , by exercising his moral authority to facilitate talks between
11620-656: The feet of the queen mother and begged her forgiveness for deposing her son. Khmer Rouge soldiers broadcast Sihanouk's message in the Cambodian countryside, which roused demonstrations rooting for his cause that were brutally suppressed by Lon Nol's troops. Sometime later, on 5 May 1970, Sihanouk announced the formation of a government-in-exile known as the Royal Government of the National Union of Kampuchea ( GRUNK ), leading Communist countries including China, North Vietnam, and North Korea to break relations with
11760-528: The formation of his resistance movement, the National United Front of Kampuchea (FUNK). He encouraged the Cambodian populace to join him and fight against Lon Nol's government. Sihanouk was revered by the Khmer peasantry as a god-like figure , and his endorsement of the Khmer Rouge had immediate effects. The royal family was so revered that Lon Nol after the coup went to the royal palace, knelt at
11900-453: The government. Between October and December 1969, Sirik Matak instituted several policy changes that ran contrary to Sihanouk's wishes, such as allowing private banks to re-open in the country and devaluing the riel. He also encouraged ambassadors to write to Lon Nol directly, instead of going through Sihanouk, angering the latter. In early January 1970, Sihanouk left Cambodia for medical treatment in France. Shortly after he left, Sirik Matak took
12040-448: The idea of orchestrating a coup to overthrow Sihanouk. Nhu contacted Dap Chhuon , Sihanouk's Interior Minister , who was known for his pro-American sympathies, to prepare for the coup against his boss. Chhuon received covert financial and military assistance from Thailand, South Vietnam, and the CIA. In January 1959 Sihanouk learned of the coup plans through intermediaries who were in contact with Chhuon. The following month, Sihanouk sent
12180-401: The impoverished country to spend too much money on the event, opting for a more modest affair. In a break with precedent, Sihamoni did not assume his seat on the higher, elevated throne nor did he wear the gold-and-diamond monarchial crown that came with the royal regalia . In his first public speech as monarch, he acknowledged words of wisdom imparted to him by his father and pledged to be
12320-454: The influential role of his father, former King Sihanouk, notwithstanding his abdication. On 29 October 2014, there were celebrations to mark the 10th anniversary of his coronation. Well-wishers representing different cross sections of the kingdom's population congregated outside the royal palace to commemorate the occasion and pay their respects to the King. On 12 December 2008, it was reported that Sihamoni had selected twenty-six members of
12460-582: The intensive, ongoing B-52 bombing raids" the US launched in eastern Cambodia beginning in March 1969 as part of Operation Menu , adding: "In any event, no one asked him. ... Sihanouk was never asked to approve the B-52 bombings, and he never gave his approval." The bombing forced the Viet Cong to flee from their jungle sanctuaries and seek refuge in populated towns and villages. As a result, Sihanouk became concerned that Cambodia might get drawn into fighting in
12600-485: The interest of the nation and our people, and for peace and national stability, I would like to appeal to the two political parties that people have voted for... to continue to find a peaceful solution to the dispute and the remaining issues. I also would like to appeal to all people to stay calm for the dignity of the nation and continue to conduct business peacefully. King Sihamoni's public statement in August 2013 amid
12740-498: The international context as well, like for instance, after Hurricane Katrina , the King made a personal good-will donation to victims of the storm. He has also donated towards multiple relief efforts after the occurrence of natural disasters in China . Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic , King Sihamoni, alongside Queen Mother Norodom Monineath has donated well over $ 1 million to the Royal Government of Cambodia's efforts to address
12880-491: The late Prince Norodom Duong Chakr of Cambodia, and the daughter of Pomme Peang and of her second husband, Jean-François Izzi , a Corsican banker. Sihamoni has 14 half-brothers and half-sisters from his father; his only full sibling, a younger brother, Samdech Norodom Narindrapong , was born in 1954 and died in 2003. The then-Prince Sihamoni first began his education in 1959, where he attended Norodom School, followed by Lycée Descartes School in Phnom Penh , developing
13020-513: The later part of the month, after receiving news that the Chinese embassy in Cambodia had published and distributed Communist propaganda to the Cambodian populace praising the Cultural Revolution , Sihanouk accused China of supporting local Chinese Cambodians in engaging in "contraband" and "subversive" activities. In August 1967, Sihanouk sent to China his Foreign Minister, Norodom Phurissara , who unsuccessfully urged Zhou to stop
13160-479: The latter three of whom concurrently served as Deputy Prime Ministers , will too be appointed as privy counsellors once they have relinquished their respective positions. The appointments came into effect later in the following month. On 4 September 2023, the King made additional appointments to the council that included former Foreign Minister Hor Namhong and former Supreme Court President Dith Munty . In January 2024, former Cambodian military leader Meas Sophea
13300-482: The legislature, though there was controversy involving the disqualification of the opposition Candlelight Party by electoral authorities. On 26 July, just a few days after the election, Prime Minister Hun Sen announced his intention to tender his resignation in favour of his son, Hun Manet . Sen had an audience with Sihamoni at the Royal Palace who reportedly consented "in a formality" to his decision and for
13440-554: The lives of the overall populace, whilst highlighting the nation's long path towards peace and development. Several Western countries boycotted the opening, but the King noted in his speech that the opening of parliament was nonetheless constitutionally mandated. Further, again at the request of the government, he has approved political clemency requests for several former members of the dissolved CNRP to participate in politics again, like for example in 2020, with respect to former chief whip Son Chhay and in 2021, with Pol Hom , who
13580-475: The monarchy. The debate led to the effective demise of the Democratic party, as its leaders were subsequently beaten up by government soldiers, with Sihanouk's tacit approval. With the Democrats vanquished, Sihanouk focused on preparing for general elections , slated to be held in March 1958. He drafted left-wing politicians, including Hou Yuon , Hu Nim and Chau Seng , to stand as Sangkum candidates, with
13720-409: The nation's constitution that covered the subject of abdication. Prince Sihamoni's selection was endorsed by Prime Minister Hun Sen and the then National Assembly President Prince Norodom Ranariddh (Sihamoni's half-brother), both members of the throne council. King Sihanouk backed the decision as well. A few years before his selection, there was speculation about potential succession after he
13860-467: The national assembly and hold elections. Sihanouk, who by now had tired of the political squabbling, dissolved the assembly in September 1949, but opted to rule by decree for the next two years before general elections were held, which the Democrats won. In October 1951, Thanh returned to Cambodia and was received by 100,000 supporters, a spectacle which Sihanouk saw as an affront to his regal authority. Thanh disappeared six months later, presumably to join
14000-983: The news as he was being driven to the Moscow airport . From Moscow, Sihanouk flew to Beijing, where he was received by Zhou Enlai . Zhou arranged for the North Vietnamese Prime Minister, Pham Van Dong to fly to Beijing from Hanoi and meet with Sihanouk. Zhou greeted Sihanouk very warmly, telling him that China still recognized him as the legitimate leader of Cambodia and would be pressuring North Korea, along with several Middle Eastern and African nations, not to recognize Lon Nol's government, saying that once China issued its declaration of support, "the Soviet Union will be embarrassed and will have to reconsider". Both Zhou and Dong encouraged Sihanouk to rebel against Lon Nol and promised him military and financial support. On 23 March 1970, Sihanouk announced
14140-569: The nominal French colonial administration . Under pressure from the Japanese, Sihanouk proclaimed Cambodia's independence and assumed the position of prime minister while serving as king at the same time. As prime minister, Sihanouk revoked a decree issued by the last resident superior of Cambodia, Georges Gautier, to romanise the Khmer alphabet . Following the Surrender of Japan in August 1945, nationalist forces loyal to Son Ngoc Thanh launched
14280-654: The opportunity to close down the casinos. In January 1970, Sihanouk left Cambodia for a two-month holiday in France, spending his time at a luxury resort in the French Riviera . On 11 March 1970, a large protest took place outside the North Vietnamese and Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam embassies, as protesters demanded Viet Cong troops withdraw from Cambodia. The protests turned chaotic, as protesters looted both embassies and set them on fire, alarming Sihanouk. Sihanouk, who
14420-494: The other. Between 1955 and 1960, Sihanouk resigned and retook the post of prime minister several times, citing fatigue caused by overwork. The National Assembly nominated experienced politicians such as Sim Var and San Yun to become prime minister whenever Sihanouk took leave, but they similarly relinquished their posts each time, several months into their term, as cabinet ministers repeatedly disagreed over public policy matters. In May 1955, Sihanouk had accepted military aid from
14560-569: The ousting of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 and the establishment of the Vietnamese installed People's Republic of Kampuchea , the family, aided by the Chinese government , was airlifted to China . Sihamoni subsequently worked as a secretary for his father who spearheaded a resistance movement in response to the Vietnamese occupation. In 1981, Sihamoni moved to France to teach ballet as a professor of classical dance and artistic pedagogy ,
14700-490: The outside world. Throughout their period of house arrest, the prince recounted how they were prohibited from making contact with anyone and were barred from having any staff. The Khmer Rouge soldiers would give them food consisting of rice and fish that was limited to two times a week and they had to, for the most part, cultivate their food from the palace gardens. With the Cambodian–Vietnamese War , which resulted in
14840-550: The package. Sihanouk's parents, Suramarit and Kossamak, were sitting in another room not far from Vakrivan. An investigation traced the origin of the parcel bomb to an American military base in Saigon. While Sihanouk publicly accused Ngo Dinh Nhu of masterminding the bomb attack, he secretly suspected that the US was also involved. The incident deepened his distrust of the US. Suramarit, Sihanouk's father, died on 3 April 1960 after several months of poor health that Sihanouk blamed upon
14980-446: The political arena have been tested. In 2005, in the first major political challenge of his reign, it was reported that he was hesitant to authorize the royal assent for the government's plans to give effect to a controversial border treaty with neighbouring Vietnam , which was compounded by his predecessor, King-father Sihanouk's objection. This caused tension with the government after Prime Minister Hun Sen expressed frustration about
15120-434: The political issues of the country, like his predecessor, King-father Norodom Sihanouk was, contending that the King has the constitutional prerogative to do so, in terms of powers accorded to him. Conversely, others have cautioned against this notion, citing that the constitution strictly warrants for a predominantly ceremonial monarch that "shall reign but shall not govern", noting that resorting to political intervention
15260-426: The rebellion. When Sihanouk threatened to charge Khieu Samphan and Hou Yuon before a military tribunal, they fled into the jungle to join the Khmer Rouge , leaving Hu Nim behind. Lon Nol resigned as prime minister in early May 1967, and Sihanouk appointed Son Sann in his place. At the same time, Sihanouk replaced conservative-leaning ministers appointed by Lon Nol with technocrats and left-leaning politicians. In
15400-536: The relocation of one of the campuses of the Royal University of Fine Arts caused an inconvenience to students and teachers, including posing safety concerns, he arranged for the donation of three minibuses to assist with transportation. Another example was in the aftermath of the 2010 Phnom Penh stampede at Koh Pich that saw hundreds killed and injured, where he reached out to the victims and their families, donating money to every household who had lost
15540-410: The resignation of Prime Minister Hun Sen , it was announced that the King would appoint him to take up the position as head of the council, succeeding Ranariddh who had died in 2021. This coincided with the announcement that National Assembly President Heng Samrin , Interior Minister Sar Kheng , Defence Minister Tea Banh , and National Assembly-Senate Relations and Inspection Minister Men Sam An ,
15680-595: The restoration of the monarchy , with Sihanouk returning as King and the prince being appointed as Cambodia's permanent representative to UNESCO in Paris, a role he held right until he became King in 2004. In this role, Sihamoni became known for his hard work and devotion to Cambodian culture as seen by his advocacy for the international recognition of Khmer classical ballet and shadow theatre as an intangible cultural heritage . He had previously refused an appointment as Cambodia's ambassador to France . In October 2003, he
15820-444: The results showed 99.8 percent approval, Australian historian Milton Osborne noted that open balloting was carried out and voters were cowed into casting an approval vote under police surveillance. On 2 March 1955, Sihanouk suddenly abdicated the throne and was in turn succeeded by his father, Norodom Suramarit . His abdication surprised everyone, including his own parents. In his abdication speech, Sihanouk explained that he
15960-428: The revolutionaries might order their murder. The other building is the concrete 1950s Chaktamuk theatre , nearby, where the surviving members of the Khmer Rouge regime, most now frail old men, are expected to face trial for genocide before an internationally funded tribunal . Two momentous dramas in Cambodia's modern history – the chequered rule of King Sihanouk and the [Khmer Rouge's] blood-drenched attempt to create
16100-615: The royal assent delay to the point that abolition of the monarchy was suggested. Sihamoni eventually signed the treaty, after having been assured by government and legislative officials as well as other members of the royal family, that no land would be ceded to Vietnam as a result of the promulgation of the bilateral treaty. In 2006, at the government's petition, he granted a pardon to leading opposition politicians, namely Sam Rainsy and Cheam Channy , who originally had their parliamentary immunity annulled and were facing charges viewed as politically motivated. In regards to Rainsy, he
16240-475: The ruling Khmer Rouge regime headed by Pol Pot turned against the monarchy, and put the royal family including Sihamoni, his brother Prince Norodom Narindrapong , his mother Queen Norodom Monineath , his father King Norodom Sihanouk under house arrest in the Royal Palace . The consequent Cambodian genocide saw several members of the wider royal family killed and Sihamoni and his immediate family lived in daily fear for their lives, effectively shut off from
16380-490: The same time skim off 10 percent of all military hardware supplies. In addition, he also allowed the Viet Cong to build a trail through eastern Cambodia, so that their troops could receive war supplies from North Vietnam. The trail later became known as the Sihanouk Trail . When the US learned of Viet Cong presence in eastern Cambodia, they started a bombing campaign, spurring Sihanouk to sever diplomatic ties with
16520-481: The second Prime Minister of his reign along with the new cabinet and members of parliament as well as officiating the inaugural opening for the new legislative term. King Sihamoni's reign has been focused on the wellbeing of the Khmer people. He has been described by some as a humble monarch because of his philanthropic endeavours and is well-known for carrying out humanitarian activities. This can be soon through various examples such as in 2006, where when
16660-417: The shock that his father had received from the parcel bomb attack. The following day, the Cambodian Crown Council met to choose Monireth as regent. Over the next two months, Sihanouk introduced constitutional amendments to create the new post of Head of State of Cambodia, which provided ceremonial powers equivalent to that of the king. A referendum held on 5 June 1960 approved Sihanouk's proposals, and Sihanouk
16800-456: The situation in Cambodia, inspiring a concerted public campaign across the country. Moreover, the King has made contributions in the provision of essential supplies, including donations of food, water and face masks to Cambodians severely impacted by COVID-19 . In July 2022, he contributed $ 500,000 towards ongoing demining efforts in the nation, which is still plagued by problematic landmines leftover from decades of conflict. In 2024, on
16940-472: The tale of two buildings on the banks of the Mekong River . One is the glorious golden-roofed royal palace , gaily illuminated by hundreds of festive lights in celebration of the announcement that the bachelor prince, Norodom Sihamoni, is to succeed his father King Norodom Sihanouk ... Within its walls, father and son endured captivity at the hands of the Khmer Rouge , not knowing from day to day whether
17080-525: The time was viewed as a positive omen as Cambodia gained independence from France later in that year. His given name "Sihamoni" comprises two morphemes from his parents' given names "Sihanouk" and "Monineath". As for "Norodom", this means Narottam in Pali and Prakrit , which translates to "the best amongst men". The name has a similar meaning in Khmer as well. At the time of his birth and that of his younger brother, his mother Princess Monique who
17220-539: The transitional arrangements that was scheduled within August 2023 for Manet's and the new government's appointment. A royal decree was formally issued on 7 August, tasking Manet with forming a new government for the seventh mandate and requesting confidence from the National Assembly . In late August, he received the endorsement and confidence of the National Assembly to serve as head of government . Subsequently, King Sihamoni officially appointed and sworn in Manet as
17360-559: The two party leaders, Rainsy and Prime Minister Hun Sen . He implored for a de-escalation of tensions, including an end to the violence between the protestors and authorities, and for the parties to find common ground towards a resolution regarding their issues. In late July 2014, the CPP and CNRP eventually reached a mutually agreed deal to resolve the political impasse. After this, in August 2014, Sihamoni would formally swear-in Rainsy and
17500-403: Was a deputy party president. Both Chhay and Ham were amongst at least 32 former CNRP political figures, as of February 2022, that the King has politically rehabilitated. Sihamoni, also had granted a royal pardon for Rainsy's deputy and later successor, Kem Sokha who had defamation charges against him stemming from an alleged adultery , though his separate treason charge remained until he
17640-416: Was abdicating in order to extricate himself from the "intrigues" of palace life and allow easier access to common folk as an "ordinary citizen". According to Osborne, Sihanouk's abdication earned him the freedom to pursue politics while continuing to enjoy the deference that he had received from his subjects when he was king. He also feared being cast aside by the government after discovering that his popularity
17780-494: Was additionally appointed as a High Privy Counselor to then-King Norodom Sihanouk . On 14 October 2004, Sihamoni was chosen as monarch by the Royal Council of the Throne , a special nine-member constitutional body that is tasked with electing the King of Cambodia . This selection process was quickly put into place after the surprise abdication of King Norodom Sihanouk the week before. At that time, there were no provisions in
17920-520: Was also appointed to the council. This was followed by the appointments of former Senate President Say Chhum and former Senate First and Second Vice Presidents Sim Ka and Tep Ngorn in March 2024. The King has limited political powers and rarely gets involved in the Cambodian political space, in conformance with his position as a constitutional monarch , and is considered to be 'above politics'. Some Cambodian opposition figures, however, have called for him to be more vocal and directly involved in
18060-492: Was backed by the National Election Committee whom urged the citizenry to heed the King's message, despite insinuations of bias levelled against him by former opposition leader Rainsy . These claims were roundly rejected and condemned by government officials, including multiple cabinet ministers . The election unsurprisingly resulted in the CPP's victory in which they retained their ruling majority in
18200-509: Was because theoretically, the constitution did not allow individuals to concurrently serve in both the royal court and government. Responding to the commentary, some ruling party officials and members of the royal family insisted that there was no agenda behind the move and that it should not be construed as the prohibition or end of royal political involvement, despite the influence and electoral success of royalist political parties having waned significantly over time. In late July 2023, upon
18340-407: Was convicted for fraud and in attempting to conspire to overthrow the government. At the time, the move by Sihamoni was found to be encouraging by international observers as it indicated a conciliatory gesture that points to a reduction of political tensions and restoration of multi-party democracy in the country. In 2009, Sihamoni, upon considering the appeals made to him for the review of
18480-496: Was convicted in early 2023. Aside from the CNRP related cases aforementioned, other high-profile pardons include that of land rights activist Tep Vanny and Australian filmmaker James Ricketson . In the 2022 communal elections , he reiterated his call for all eligible Cambodians to participate in the civic process by exercising their right to vote , and to "not worry about oppression, threats or intimidation from any person or party at all", something that he had previously urged
18620-487: Was embroiled in a legal dispute with Prime Minister Hun Sen , over a 1997 grenade attack on a political rally, which injured Rainsy, as he was giving a speech. He had accused Prime Minister Sen of being involved, an accusation that the Prime Minister denies, though Rainsy later expressed regret in making the claim. As for Channy, he was designated as a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty International , where he
18760-519: Was formally appointed Head of State on 14 June 1960. As the head of state, Sihanouk took over various ceremonial responsibilities of the king, such as holding public audiences and leading the Royal Ploughing Ceremony . At the same time, he continued to play an active role in politics as Sangkum's leader. In 1961, Pracheachon's spokesperson, Non Suon, criticized Sihanouk for failing to tackle inflation, unemployment, and corruption in
18900-408: Was in Paris at the time, considered both returning to quell the protests and visiting Moscow, Beijing, and Hanoi . He opted for the latter, thinking that he could persuade its leaders to recall Viet Cong troops to their jungle sanctuaries, where they had originally established themselves between 1964 and 1969. Five days later, Oum Mannorine, the half-brother of Sihanouk's wife Monique, was summoned to
19040-556: Was manufactured by his own officials. In April 1955, before leaving for a summit with Asian and African states in Bandung , Indonesia, Sihanouk announced the formation of his own political party, the Popular Socialist Community (Sangkum), and expressed interest in participating in the general elections slated to be held in September 1955. While the Sangkum was, in effect, a political party, Sihanouk argued that
19180-597: Was once even selected for a television rendition of Brundibár , a well-known children's opera . He then concluded his secondary education at the National Prague Conservatory and was regarded as an able student, getting high marks. Here, he further developed his interest in the performing arts , undertaking courses in this field and excelling at the top of his class. Furthermore, he attained great fluency in Czech . A movie directed by Vladimir Sís
19320-621: Was once reported to have requested for his official state car to stop so he can give a blanket to an elderly Cambodian who he saw on the roadside. Additionally, Sihamoni is said to donate to the Cambodian Red Cross on a regular basis and has authorized royal grants for infrastructure, schools, orphanages, struggling communities, religious institutions, people affected by a disability, rehabilitation centres, mental health organizations, victims of violence, and sponsoring student's trips among others. His philanthropy extends in
19460-652: Was seen deputizing on Sihanouk's behalf at official functions despite him being rarely seen in public, although much of the initial speculation focused on Ranariddh who was the preferred choice of his parents, but who ultimately expressed disinterest in acceding to the throne. Sihamoni was said to have been reluctant to take on the stately role, but nevertheless accepted it in the national interest, returning on 20 October to Phnom Penh, accompanied by his parents, King-Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath , to an estimated 100,000 people who lined their motorcade route from Phnom Penh International Airport to
19600-405: Was shot about the prince in Prague in 1967, under the name The Other Little Prince ( Jiný malý princ ). The prince would occasionally visit his homeland for holidays of which when he did, he involved himself in Cambodia's arts and cultural scene, including starring in a film made by his father and performing ballet. During the 1970 coup d'état by Lon Nol that saw Sihanouk removed from power and
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