Prime Minister Hun Sen, as president of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), requested that deputy prime ministers, senior ministers, and all other ministers in the new government mandate increase contact with their local communities, in order to better understand their needs.

He stressed that in this way, they would be better placed to drive economic growth, as well as development in all sectors.

Hun Sen made the request during an August 10 CPP meeting at the party’s headquarters. According to a social media announcement, the meeting provided an opportunity for new and old cabinet members to meet.

During the meeting Hun Sen also recommended that officials in decision making positions of each government institution retain their positions, with only a few exceptions, in which some officials were tasked with new roles.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister-designate Hun Manet stressed the unity of the CPP.

“The most important driver of the Cambodian People’s Party is maintaining our path and defeating our rivals, now and in the future; that can only be achieved through solidarity and unity within the party,” he posted on social media.

According to a CPP statement, nearly all of the new members of the cabinet are members of the new generation, with Hun Manet to officially become prime minister from August 22. He was appointed by King Norodom Sihamoni on August 7, and awarded the title of “Kitti Tesaphibal Bindit”.

The National Assembly is set to commence a two-day session on July 21-22 to approve the new government. The session will be presided over by the king.