The Cambodia national election has concluded, and it is widely anticipated that the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), led by Prime Minister Hun Sen, will secure an easy victory. However, concerns about the fairness of the election have been raised by critics, who consider it the least free and fair in the country's recent history.

A significant number of the country's citizens, around 9.7 million registered voters out of a total population of 16 million, cast their ballots on Sunday, beginning at 7 a.m. (00:00 GMT). Despite the presence of 17 smaller parties alongside the incumbent CPP, none of them posed a substantial challenge to Hun Sen's uninterrupted 38-year rule, during which he has skillfully consolidated power in Cambodia.

This expected victory for Hun Sen could potentially pave the way for a transfer of power to his son, Hun Manet, who currently holds the position of head of the Cambodian army. As the longest-serving elected leader in Asia, Hun Sen's election triumph further solidifies his position.

However, the election has not been without criticism. The Candlelight Party, the only genuine opposition contender, was barred from participating in the vote due to a registration inconsistency in May. This move has drawn accusations from opponents, who argue that Hun Sen is deliberately limiting political participation in the nation.

On the election day, Prime Minister Hun Sen and his wife, Bun Rany, cast their votes in Takhmau, located south of the capital city, where one of the prime minister's mansions is situated.

Overall, this election outcome reaffirms Hun Sen's strong grip on power and raises the possibility of a succession plan involving his son, Hun Manet, taking on a prominent role in Cambodian politics.