King Sihanouk's confusing signals

King Norodom Sihanouk's behavior over the past decades has tended to match the confusing nature of Cambodian politics. His latest moves fit the mold perfectly. Last week he seemed prepared to give his blessings to Ung Huot, the man who has been installed as first prime minister, replacing King Sihanouk's son, Prince Ranariddh.

Now, however, he appears to have changed his mind. After denouncing Ung Huot as "a puppet", he declared Prince Ranariddh "the legal first prime minister of Cambodia". And after offering to abdicate if asked to by Cambodian strongman Hun Sen, he indicated that he would soon return home as monarch.

He has done this sort of thing before, which has led to a lot of misunderstanding about his intentions. It also has sent confusing signals to other countries, including the United States. Cambodia paid a terrible price for that in the 1970s. It is hard to understand how King Sihanouk hopes to contribute to a resolution of the current situation in Cambodia.

If King Sihanouk really wishes to serve his people he should work toward creating stability in Cambodia and the region. This would certainly be more beneficial to Cambodians than indulging in Machiavellian maneuvers and constant changes of course.

-- The Hongkong Standard