Koon Khmer

“Repression is just useless. Hun Sen’s behavior differs from others, if you repress [me], I will sleep and ignore. Do not repress the man.”
Prime Minister Hun Sen warned his detractors not to raise international pressure or make threats, otherwise political problems would not be resolved and future pardons for others now detained in prison would not be forthcoming.

“On my living room table, I only put Coca-Cola and mineral water.”
Prime Minister Hun Sen during the official inauguration of a new $100 million Cambodian Coca-Cola production facility.

“Let the people judge.”
CNRP spokesman Yim Sovann during the 40th convention of the 545-member central committee of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party on December 18 2016.

“Pure gold does not fear fire."
Suspended Serei Sophoan High School director Nath Sivlay after more than 40 staff filed a complaint alleging widespread corruption, nepotism and intimidation.

“How can they be herded when they grow bigger? They can fly.”
Prime Minister Hun Sen’s nephew Hun To after an elderly local shot and ate one of his escaped peacocks.

"The assembly will conduct a Buddhist cleansing ceremony during Khmer New Year."
Parliament spokesman Leng Peng Long in a reaction on the unsubstantiated claims of sexual misconduct by CNRP lawmakers.

"People don’t have much respect for the military, because there are too many stars in the sky.”
The opinion of an anonymous military official about the armed forces’ approach to career advancement.

“Everyone is happy.”
Government spokesman Phay Siphan in a reaction on the annual World Happiness Report ranking Cambodia toward the bottom of the list.

“If he doesn’t flee, we will appreciate him. But if he goes, then Chanboth is definitely a dog serving America.”
Interior Ministry spokesman Khieu Sopheak about RFA reporter Chun Chanboth who left Cambodia for Thailand days before he had to attend a hearing at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court.

“Do not wait for Hun Sen to die. I am not ready to die and I will be here for a long time.”
Mr Hun Sen used his first public appearance since returning from a short stay in a Singapore hospital to mock those who were ready to pounce should the end come quickly.