Samdech Teccho Hun Sen to Attend Funeral of Former Opposition Leader Kem Sokha’s Mother, Sends Condolences

PHNOM PENH, July 10, 2026(KPT) – Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen will attend the funeral of the mother of former opposition leader Kem Sokha, a Senate spokesman said Friday, in a gesture seen as underscoring reconciliation following Sokha’s recent royal pardon.

Spokesman Chea Thyrith confirmed Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s presence at the ceremony for Upasika Sao Yet, who died on July 8 at the age of 101.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also sent a condolence message to Sokha and his family, describing Sao Yet as a devoted mother, grandmother and great‑grandmother whose passing was a loss to her family and the wider Buddhist community.

In his message, Samdech Techo praised her lifelong dedication to Buddhism, noting her contributions of time, energy and resources to support the religion.

He said she embodied compassion, moral virtue and social harmony, and offered prayers that she be peacefully reborn in a heavenly realm.

The funeral comes weeks after Sokha received a royal pardon in May, following an appeal court decision upholding his treason conviction. The decree was signed by Hun Sen, acting as head of state on behalf of the king.

The pardon marked a significant political development, allowing Sokha to regain freedom after years of legal battles.

Analysts said Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s attendance at the funeral highlights a symbolic moment in Cambodia’s political landscape, reflecting both personal sympathy and broader efforts to ease tensions.