Opinions of former Khmer Rouge soldiers from Anlong Veng on the situation between Cambodia and Thailand

By Ly Sok-Kheang - Director of the Anlong Veng Peace Center

The border between Cambodia and Thailand has been a source of contention for many years, with no sign of resolution. The territorial dispute has been used in various ways to stir up nationalism or serve specific political objectives over time. Currently, the armies of both countries are on high alert, and people living near potential conflict zones have been asked to remain vigilant.

Anlong Veng, one of the districts along the border, is preparing for a possible resumption of hostilities. This district is known as the last stronghold of the Khmer Rouge movement and is mainly inhabited by former soldiers and members of the regime. They represent around 70 to 80% of the approximately 60,000 inhabitants. Most of them fought directly against the Thai army during the Cambodian civil war (1979-1998).

At that time, Ta Mok, whose real name was Chhit Choeun, a local warlord, built several concrete structures, such as his former meeting place, which was converted in 2014 into the Anlong Veng Peace Center, and Pol Pot's fortified bunker at the top of Mount Dangrek in the Anlong Veng district. All senior and junior KR commanders recognized Pol Pot, the former prime minister of Democratic Kampuchea, and even went to the former headquarters to receive his directives and advice on the battlefields. Former senior KR officials were well aware of the strategic geography of the border. Known for his abusive language, even towards his own people, Ta Mok acted in the same way at the time towards Thai soldiers who tried in vain to prevent him from building a dirt road linking the current Choam border post to Pol Pot's former house and bunker. Ta Mok responded to this attempt by declaring:

“Did this piece of land belong to your mother?”

At this crucial time, the accounts and reflections of former members of the Khmer Rouge deserve to be heard in order to allow for a better understanding and deeper reflection. The following opinions are direct quotes from four main questions: their views on the border conflict and the closure of border crossings; their personal experiences with the Thai army during the Khmer Rouge's armed struggle until 1998; their perception of the Khmer Rouge's role as pioneers of border protection; and their conception of peace.

Cheam Im, 66, former regiment commander of the Khmer Rouge's Division 800, says: "As I am used to war, I am not too concerned about the situation on the border between Cambodia and Thailand. Our border is not where it is now. Based on my direct experience in the region, our territory should extend much further into what is now Thai territory, beyond the currently disputed area. I spent most of my military life in disputed areas such as Mumbei and the Preah Vihear temple.

“The Khmer Rouge also relied on the French map. We studied it in detail and it clearly showed that the current border is the result of an illegal seizure. If anyone claims that Cambodia is encroaching on Thai territory, I will never believe them.”

"But I am convinced that Thailand is using stratagems to encroach on our territory. Our strong spirit and guerrilla tactics would be effective if we were to go to war. This scenario is no different from previous ones. They want our territory. Honestly, I am not at all afraid of Thai soldiers. I know their weaknesses well. However, I fully support our government's legal approach in this matter.

Thet Chreun, 61, former Khmer Rouge army group leader, says: "I have made certain arrangements regarding the situation at the border. I strongly reject the claim that Cambodia has encroached on Thai territory. The Thais are opportunists who tend to encroach on our territory during times of internal conflict. However, the former Khmer Rouge forces can be considered a solid barrier that helps protect us from malicious intrusion. When the Thai and Khmer Rouge armies came into contact, the Thai side never raised this issue."

“In my opinion, our border should be much further inside Thai territory that is already occupied. A legal mechanism should be used to resolve the border issue. Given my state of health, I may not be able to participate in any future fighting.”

Nop Mut, 68, a former Khmer Rouge soldier, said: “I don't see any tense situation regarding a possible evacuation of the population. We all live in our own houses, near trenches. I'm not afraid, because I've been through this several times before.”

"However, I don't want to see war, because I worry about my wife, children, and grandchildren. I am not afraid to take up arms and join the army if our government needs me. As a member state of ASEAN, such a war of aggression should never be allowed.“

”Although all decisions must be made at the national level, we naturally prefer a peaceful settlement. As you may know, the Khmer Rouge forces were spiritually committed. Our people never wanted to take anyone's land. I am committed to defending the country if necessary.“

Peah Chou, 68, a former Khmer Rouge soldier, said: ”Having lived through the war, I never wanted to leave my village. I am neither too afraid nor reckless. As a former Khmer Rouge soldier, I think the Thai army has limited experience of war, but it is larger and better armed than we are. However, we can count on former Khmer Rouge soldiers and mobilize them if the government needs us. Former Khmer Rouge soldiers are a strong border barrier for Cambodia."

Ek Sokhet, 70, former Khmer Rouge soldier, emphasizes:

 "For me, the current border conflict should not be a problem because I trust our government. This is a clever move on Thailand's part. In terms of military strategy, the Thai army lacks experience and is even inferior to ours and Vietnam's. The Khmer Rouge forces managed to defeat the Vietnamese army, despite the many tricks they used. As far as I know, our people and our army have never wanted to take over our neighbors' territory. However, Thailand continues to encroach on our territory.

“When our government filed a complaint with an international court, Thailand reacted angrily and closed the border posts. Its blatant encroachment is undeniable. I know exactly where our territory is, because I had my military base in the Dangrek mountain range.”

"If we look at our history, Cambodia has lost many provinces to Thailand. Today, we are only protecting what still belongs to us. I think that, as many former Khmer Rouge soldiers are now part of the army, they will protect our territory well. They know the geography perfectly and understand the cunning nature of the Thai army. Despite our advanced age, we are ready to support our country's cause if necessary. Peace can only reign if we oppose any aggressor. The government must pursue its complaint before the international court.“

Pen Nin, 78, a former Khmer Rouge soldier, said: ”It is disappointing that all the border posts have been closed. In my opinion, Cambodia has no desire to seize territory belonging to another country. I think these claims are completely fabricated. However, former Khmer Rouge soldiers remain a strong and determined force. In the past, we served in the army without receiving any pay. We devoted our time and services and were prepared to sacrifice our lives for our country. It is not acceptable to resort to arms rather than negotiation. War would only cause casualties.“ Sat Kuy, 58, said: ”The closure of border posts will affect people on both sides. Thailand imports many products into our country.“

 ”I don't believe Thailand's claims that Cambodia has encroached on its territory. I know the area well because I served there as a Khmer Rouge soldier. Our Cambodian side is only protecting our territory.“

”That's why I'm proud that the Khmer Rouge forces have always protected the border. I think former Khmer Rouge soldiers would join the government forces in the event of a war of aggression."

So Hoeun, 78, a former member of the Khmer Rouge, said: "In my opinion, the tensions have been deliberately provoked by Thailand over the territorial claim and the closure of the border. As a neighboring country, Thailand should not behave in this way.

"Thailand has not been very good at waging war, but it has enjoyed complete independence for a very long time and has a large military contingent. Thailand may think it is superior to us, but I do not think so. “

”War depends more on practice on the battlefield than on theory. Our leaders and a large part of our population have gained extensive experience through war and bombing. Cambodia even won the battle of the Preah Vihear temple. Thailand has a long history of wars of aggression. I do not believe that Cambodia is encroaching on Thai territory. The former Khmer Rouge forces can be considered one of the solid pillars defending our homeland in the event of aggression. They endured and survived battles where their lives were at stake and passed on their knowledge and experience to our young soldiers. We will never be defeated as long as there is national unity, leaders and the people.

 An old saying goes, “A bundle of sticks cannot be broken.” Given that the situation on the Cambodian border is at a turning point, the military and civilians have no choice but to stand ready. Although opinions differ, no one wants conflict. However, no one will back down in a war to defend their country.

National unity would be extremely helpful in winning any battle. However, legal mechanisms and diplomacy should be the best approaches. War never ends in war; only long-term diplomatic negotiations can guarantee peace.

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not claim to reflect the opinions or views of Cambodge Mag.