Exiled Cambodian opposition leader Sam Rainsy announced the formation of a provisional “Independent Cambodia Government 23 October” from France, challenging the legitimacy of Prime Minister Hun Sen’s long-standing regime and accusing it of operating as a “mafia state” engaged in systemic crime.
The declaration, issued by the Cambodia National Resistance Council (CNRC) and dated October 23, 2025, coincides with the 34th anniversary of the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements. Rainsy stated the move aims to “restore democracy” and “protect national independence” for the Cambodian people.
Rainsy specifically highlighted recent U.S. actions that blacklisted and seized assets of transnational criminal figures on October 14. These targeted individuals included alleged planner Chen Zhi and dozens of associates, some reportedly high-ranking Cambodian officials tied to Hun Sen’s family and inner circle.
He praised the U.S. initiative, framing it as crucial new evidence of a global crackdown on corruption and state-protected criminal groups. He called on other nations whose citizens have been victims of fraud and human trafficking in Cambodia to cooperate in dismantling these networks.
The former opposition leader asserted Cambodia has transformed into a “mafia state” over the past two decades. He cited a dramatic rise in state-protected cybercrime and transnational criminal networks in the last five years. Rainsy claims the current Phnom Penh government has become a system driven by crime, endangering the nation and the region.
The CNRC originates from the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), which garnered substantial public support in the 2013 and 2017 elections. The Hun Sen government later dissolved the CNRP, citing fear of growing democratic power. Rainsy argues this dissolution means the current government no longer represents the Cambodian people’s will.
He accused the Hun Sen regime of explicitly violating the principles of liberal multi-party democracy enshrined in the Paris Peace Agreements. Rainsy claims these violations have destroyed democratic foundations and undermined international guarantees for Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The “Independent Cambodia Government 23 October” outlined three core principles. It stated Cambodia’s territorial integrity is guaranteed by international treaties, negating the need for its own military.
Secondly, it demands Cambodia’s return to democracy and respect for human rights, which it says are currently violated by the dictatorial regime.
Thirdly, it calls for full national independence through genuine neutrality. This includes the closure of the Ream Naval Base and all other foreign military bases within Cambodian territory.
The new entity aims to restore the spirit of the Paris Peace Agreements, rebuild democratic institutions, ensure genuine rule of law, and return power to the Khmer people.