Bangkok: Political observer Thepthai Senpong has scrutinized the strategies employed by Cambodian leaders Hun Sen and Hun Manet, suggesting their actions are designed to arouse nationalist sentiment to influence upcoming elections. Thepthai shared his insights through a Facebook post on his page, "Thepthai - Political Talk," where he mentioned sharing the Thai national anthem, "Thailand Loves Peace," as a symbolic message to Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 in Hanoi, Vietnam, set the stage for a conversation between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Hun Manet highlighted the fragility of the Thai-Cambodian ceasefire and proposed a Joint Border Committee meeting to discuss border demarcation based on existing agreements. He emphasized that any demarcation should not result from force or unilateral actions.
The discord stems from Cambodia's dissatisfaction with the Thai military's territorial gains, which Hun Manet claims were achieved through force, contradicting the Joint Statement signed in Kuala Lumpur on December 27, 2025. This agreement, witnessed by both nations, established a ceasefire based on territorial occupation. Thepthai questions Cambodia's commitment to this agreement given their current stance.
In a separate development, Prime Minister Hun Sen visited displaced Cambodian nationals in Banteay Meanchey province, declaring intentions to reclaim territories occupied by Thai forces. Hun Sen suggested two possible approaches: military force or peaceful negotiations. His statements are perceived as an attempt to evoke nationalist fervor among Cambodians, especially as elections approach and Hun Manet's popularity wanes.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to the Cambodian leaders by asserting Thailand's readiness to defend its territory and sovereignty. Anutin's remarks were measured, advising against encroachment or forceful actions against Thailand.
Thepthai, as an independent political analyst, believes that a simple reminder of Thailand's peaceful yet resolute stance, echoed in their national anthem, would suffice to communicate Thailand's preparedness to address any challenges posed by the Cambodian leadership.