Cambodian King temporarily steps back from duties due to health, appoints Hun Sen as Acting Head of State

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (February 7, 2026) — King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia has temporarily suspended his royal duties citing health concerns, a move that has constitutionally elevated Senate President Hun Sen to the role of Acting Head of State.

According to an official statement from the Royal Palace, the monarch is currently undergoing medical treatment and is unable to fulfill his official functions. Consequently, in accordance with Article 11 of the Cambodian Constitution, the powers of the head of state have been transferred to the President of the Senate.

Diplomatic Imperative

The transition of power comes at a critical diplomatic juncture for Phnom Penh. On February 6, Cambodia welcomed Vietnam’s Communist Party General Secretary To Lam and a high-level delegation for a state visit.

While protocol typically dictates that the monarch personally receive visiting heads of state, King Sihamoni’s condition precluded his attendance. Hun Sen, the country’s longtime former strongman who assumed the Senate presidency in April 2024 after handing the premiership to his son, stepped in to preside over the high-stakes diplomatic engagement.

Political Implications

Analysts view the seamless transition as a demonstration of the enduring influence of the Hun family. Despite stepping down as Prime Minister in August 2023, Hun Sen remains a central figure in Cambodian politics. His position as Senate President constitutionally designates him as the second-highest official in the kingdom, granting him the authority to act as head of state in the King’s absence—whether due to illness or overseas travel.

The King is expected to resume his duties pending his recovery. King Sihamoni, 72, frequently travels to Beijing for routine medical checkups, during which time the Senate President traditionally assumes the acting role.