Brief Biography
Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet
Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia
Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN MANET – born on October 20, 1977, in Memot District, Kampong Cham Province, during the Khmer Rouge regime – is a highly distinguished military leader who held significant positions within the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF). Notably, he served as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the RCAF and the Commander of the Royal Cambodian Army (RCA), while also leading the National Counter-Terrorism Special Forces.
His academic journey began in Phnom Penh, where he received his General Education in 1993. In 1995, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET joined the RCAF and was subsequently admitted to the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point in the same year. A trailblazer, he was the first Cambodian to graduate from West Point in 1999 with a diploma and a bachelor’s degree in economics. Continuing his academic pursuits, he obtained a Master of Arts in Economics from New York University and a PhD in Economics from the University of Bristol.
Throughout his military career, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET has achieved remarkable feats, such as being appointed as the Commander of Cambodia’s National Headquarters of Counterterrorism Special Forces in 2008, where he played a pivotal role in bolstering Cambodia’s ability to counter terrorism. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in 2013 and assumed the position of Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the RCAF in 2018. In March 2023, he received the highest rank of a 4-Star General in recognition of his exceptional contributions and leadership in strengthening the army’s capabilities and enhancing the foreign relations in the field of defense.
Beyond his military duties, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET actively engages in social programs, notably serving as the Chief of the Samdech Techo Hun Sen Scholarship Committee and the Samdech Techo Scholarship Association. These organizations offer scholarship opportunities to numerous Cambodian youths, enabling them to pursue higher education within the country. Additionally, he chairs the Board of Directors of the Samdech Techo Youth Volunteer Doctor Association (TYDA), which mobilizes medical professionals, students, and volunteers to provide free healthcare services to rural Cambodians.
Within the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET holds a prominent position in the party’s permanent committee and leads its central youth wing. He was democratically elected by the party as their official nominee for the esteemed position of Prime Minister in the future. Following the July 2023 election victory, His Majesty the King appointed Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET has demonstrated exceptional leadership by effectively guiding the RCA in supporting the Royal Government of Cambodia’s efforts to combat the pandemic. His oversight of vaccination campaigns; establishment of quarantine and treatment centers; facilitation of transportation for incoming Cambodian workers at the borders; and management of Luong Me Hospital exemplifies his commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of the Cambodian people.
Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET stands as an exemplary and astute leader, characterized by his remarkable intellect and unwavering dedication to his country and its citizens. His resolute commitment to national harmony, stability, and advancement, coupled with his resounding determination, epitomizes the quintessential attributes of a trustworthy, inspiring, and compassionate leader. His democratic election by the party as their designated candidate for the Prime Ministerial role serves as a testament to his proven capabilities.
Samdech Thipadei HUN MANET is married to Dr. Pich Chanmony, and together, they are proud parents of three lovely children: Vorleak, Lyna, and Rithyseth. As he takes on the role of Prime Minister, the nation eagerly anticipates his continued dedication and leadership in advancing Cambodia’s prosperity and well-being.