RCAF Rejects Claims Government Cut Frontline Troop Salaries

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) strongly rejected what it described as false and distorted claims by exiled opposition figure Sam Rainsy and his group, who alleged that the Royal Government had threatened and cut the salaries of frontline troops.

The RCAF said the Royal Government and the Ministry of National Defense have consistently prioritized the welfare of military personnel, including benefits and additional support for those serving on the front lines. Special policies are in place for troops wounded or disabled while defending national sovereignty.

“The RCAF fully rejects and strongly condemns the malicious disinformation spread by Sam Rainsy and his group,” the statement read. “Their intent is to demoralize and insult the armed forces, as well as the Cambodian nation and its people, who have long endured violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Rainsy and his group, labeled by the government as “three-generation traitors,” have been accused of undermining national unity and dishonoring war heroes and victims. The RCAF emphasized that the government, the Cambodian people—both at home and abroad—and the armed forces remain committed to defending national sovereignty and the well-being of the population.

Kin Phea, director general of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, warned that spreading rumors affecting troop morale poses a serious threat to national security.

“If those rumors turn out to be true, the danger is even greater—especially when the country faces external threats,” he said.

Phea added that beyond issuing denials, the General Command Headquarters and the Ministry of National Defense must take proactive steps to prevent such claims from gaining traction.

“If the allegations are proven true, those responsible must be strictly punished under the law, without exception, to uphold the rule of law and prevent any misunderstanding,” he said.