Phnom Penh: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Civil Service, H.E. Hun Many, has marked the 55th anniversary of the 1970 coup d’©tat that ousted then-Head of State, Prince Norodom Sihanouk, by General Lon Nol and Prince Sirik Matak. He emphasised the event as a crucial historical lesson, reminding younger generations of the fragility of peace and the devastating consequences of war. In a social media post, Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many stated, “Today, 55 years ago, our beloved Cambodia stepped to the edge of the most terrible abyss in its history.” He highlighted the relentless suffering inflicted upon the Cambodian people by war, bombings, violence, and insecurity following the Mar. 18 coup.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many remarked on the wheels of history turning towards a tragedy that led to genocide, mass killings, torture, and forced labour, claiming nearly three million lives over three years, eight months, and 20 days. He further noted the extensive time required for national reconstruction following the Jan. 7 liberation, amidst external pressures and the constant threat of the Khmer Rouge’s resurgence. “Our leaders and people at that time struggled, endured, and sacrificed everything to regain peace,” he said.

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that it took nearly two decades to achieve full peace and begin national development across all sectors. He stressed that this historical lesson serves to educate younger generations about the delicate nature of peace and the destructive power of war. “This event also teaches us that no one loves our nation more than its own people, who were born and survived on this land,” he added.

He condemned political smear campaigns, extremism, discrimination, and hatred as sources of internal division, which historically weakened the nation. He urged for national unity and a commitment to preserving peace and stability.