Prime Minister Hun Manet has spent over $1.5 million on Facebook ads since September 2022, following his father’s tenure. His visibility is enhanced through social media, yet concerns persist regarding the transparency of funding sources and the self-serving nature of the promoted content.
Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia has spent over $1.5 million on Facebook advertisements since September 2022, as reported by Meta Platform Inc.’s database. This spending commenced shortly before Hun Manet assumed the premiership following his father, Hun Sen, who had ruled for 38 years until his resignation post the July 2023 general elections. Hun Sen now serves as the Senate president and has utilized Facebook extensively to connect with the Cambodian populace.
Prior to his resignation, Meta declined to heed its oversight board’s recommendation to suspend Hun Sen’s accounts, despite his public threats directed at political adversaries. Hun Manet’s promotional content on Facebook predominantly showcases his public engagements and communiqués aimed at addressing criticisms, thereby enhancing his visibility among users of the platform. This approach aligns with Hun Sen’s longstanding strategy of leveraging social media.
The database provides insights into advertising expenditures by various global entities, including politicians from different nations. Political analyst Kim Sok emphasized the importance of transparency regarding the funding sources for these promotions, suggesting scrutiny of whether the budgetary allocation comes from governmental funds or private contributions. He criticized the social media portrayal of Cambodian officials as largely self-serving, lacking discussions on public policy.
RFA attempted to contact key officials within the prime minister’s office and the Anti-Corruption Unit for further clarification, but these efforts were unsuccessful. The ongoing concerns surrounding transparency and the potential implications for governmental accountability remain paramount in discussions about Hun Manet’s digital influence.
In summary, Prime Minister Hun Manet’s spending on Facebook advertisements signals a strategic approach to political engagement since he took office. The significant funds invested raise questions about transparency concerning their sources, with critics suggesting misuse for personal gain rather than public service. The situation illustrates the intersection of digital communication and political strategy in Cambodia.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
