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ASEAN Beat
‘One Vision, One Identity, One Community.’ That’s the ASEAN motto. But what’s the reality? Our bloggers based around this diverse and strategically key region give you an insider’s perspective on politics, security and society in South-east Asia.
As Expected, Hun Sen Trumps in One-Sided Cambodian Election
By Luke Hunt
Leader’s eldest son to become prime minister within “three to four weeks.”
Move Forward Supporters Gather in Bangkok to Protest Obstructed PM Bid
By Sebastian Strangio
The 1,000-strong demonstration at the capital's busy Asok intersection could be a harbinger of further unrest to come.
Cambodia’s Ruling Party Claims Landslide Win in Election That Saw Opposition Suppressed
By Sopheng Cheang and David Rising
According to preliminary results, the Cambodian People's Party is on track to "win" 120 of the 125 seats in the National Assembly.
Autocratic Cambodian Leader Paving Way for Son, a West Point Graduate, to Rule
By David Rising
Hun Manet took his father's place at a large rally marking the conclusion of the CPP's campaign for Sunday's vote.
Pita’s Prime Ministerial Bid Has Ended. What’s Next For Thai Politics?
By Sebastian Strangio
By obstructing the Move Forward Party from forming the government, conservative forces are courting political crisis.
Vietnam Proposes to ‘Turn Off’ Internet For Law-breakers
By Sebastian Strangio
Under rules proposed by the Ministry of Information, ISPs and telecoms operators will be obliged to cut off users and organizations that "commit violations online."
Malaysia Announces Investigation Into Disappearance of Myanmar Activist
By Sebastian Strangio
Thuzar Maung was reportedly abducted from her Kuala Lumpur residence on July 4, along with her husband and three children.
Thai Parliament Blocks Pita From Being Renominated for Prime Minister
By Grant Peck and Jintamas Saksornchai
After Pita Limjaroenrat of the Move Forward Party was blocked from a second attempt at being confirmed, Parliament adjourned without ever voting on a PM.
Cambodian Government Intensifies Repression Ahead of National Vote
By Sebastian Strangio
This Sunday's national election will function as a prelude to the expected handover of power from Prime Minister Hun Sen to his eldest son.
ICC Rejects Philippines’ Final Appeal Against ‘Drug War’ Investigation
By Sebastian Strangio
The ruling opens the way to an investigation of extrajudicial killings, but trials of Philippine officials remain a remote prospect.
Cambodia’s Opposition Movement Needs To Start Anew. Taxation and Eco-Nationalism Should Drive It.
By David Hutt
It is time for the movement to step away from stale personal and political rivalries and embrace a more concrete, forward-looking platform.
Thai Parliament Readies for Second Prime Ministerial Vote
By Sebastian Strangio
The chances of Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat securing the necessary support are growing slimmer.