(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed that the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces are fully equipped with uniforms, supplies, and the necessary tools to carry out their mission of safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, some frontline soldiers opt for flat-soled sandals over military boots for greater comfort during patrols.
Samdech Thipadei made these remarks in response to criticism from opposition figures and social media commentators who have attempted to undermine troop morale by comparing senior military officials with ordinary soldiers. This comes amid heightened border tensions with Thailand in Preah Vihear province, where photos of soldiers wearing flat sandals were circulated in an effort to criticise the government for allegedly neglecting the military.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet clarified that the use of flat sandals and modest meals on the front lines reflects practicality, not neglect, and condemned those who shared such images out of context. He expressed disappointment in certain politicians who used misleading or fabricated information often originating from neighbouring countries to distort facts, demoralise the armed forces, and falsely accuse the government of withholding information.
The premier spoke on Tuesday (Jun. 17) at the Closing of Extraordinary General Assembly of Cambodia Scouts in Phnom Penh.
“From head to toe, our soldiers are provided by the Royal Government with uniforms, military equipment, and even footwear. But some comrades on the front lines do not like wearing tall military boots, especially those who fought during the Khmer Rouge era. They prefer flat sandals. Even when wearing such footwear on the front lines, they remain fearless in safeguarding our homeland,” the premier underscored.
Addressing foreign political analysts who questioned the use of sandals by frontline troops, the head of the Royal Government himself a former commander of the Royal Cambodian Army emphasised that Cambodia’s armed forces have no intention of advancing into any foreign territory, even by a millimetre. However, they are fully prepared to defend the Kingdom of Cambodia’s land, not ceding even a single millimetre to any external aggression. This spirit, he said, reflects the unwavering determination of the Cambodian military and deserves recognition.
Samdech Thipadei further explained that some soldiers wear flat sandals due to the discomfort caused by long boots in hot and humid conditions, particularly during rainy-season patrols when sweat and chafing can be severe.
The prime minister extended his gratitude to the armed forces for bravely guarding the homeland and expressed his condolences to those who have faced hardship or made the ultimate sacrifice. He also thanked the Cambodian people for standing united on territorial issues with neighbouring countries.
Addressing the opposition, Samdech Thipadei said, “You have every right to try to dishearten me, but do not break the spirit of Cambodia’s armed forces who are defending this land from foreign aggression.” He called on the public to continue supporting and encouraging the military, stressing that such solidarity is a vital expression of national patriotism. He reassured the public that the Royal Government, the Ministry of National Defence, and the armed forces remain firmly committed to resolving territorial issues and safeguarding Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
=FRESH NEWS
