CNN —Cambodian strongman leader Hun Sen has thrown his weight behind a new homegrown messaging app, which critics say is a way for the government to monitor and undermine political discussion in the country.
One of the world’s longest-serving leaders, Hun Sen has ruled Cambodia with an iron fist for more than three decades.
Though his eldest son, Hun Manet, succeeded him as prime minister last year, Hun Sen remains the ruling party’s center of power.
Greater online surveillanceInternet freedom in Cambodia has experienced a drastic regression under Hun Sen’s rule, rights groups say.
CNN has reached out to Hun Sen’s office for comment.
Persons:
Hun Sen, WhatsApp, ”, Vietnam’s, Hun Manet, Lim Cheavutha, Hun Sen’s, Hun, Mu Sochua, leader’s, China’s, “, Sam Rainsy, ” Sam Rainsy
Organizations:
CNN, Facebook, US State Department, United Nations, Meta, Reuters, Communist Party, CoolApp
Locations:
Cambodian, Cambodia, Southeast Asia