As retired King Norodom Sihanouk and newly appointed King Norodom Sihamoni return to Phnom Penh today, signs of a new reign have already become apparent throughout the city.
Portraits of Norodom Sihanouk have been removed from the front of the Royal Palace, the National Assembly, and along main streets in the capital. And preparations are under way to install pictures of King Sihamoni, said Prince Sisowath Thomico, special secretary to the king at the Royal Cabinet.
Less visible signs of the changeover are also in effect, as officials make arrangements ranging from today’s reception of King Sihamoni and his parents, Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Norodom Monineath, to the adoption of the official royal title and monthly expenditures of the outgoing monarch.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday, Assembly President Prince Norodom Ranariddh said the parliament is expected to pass a law today giving Norodom Sihanouk the lengthy official title of “His Great Royal Majesty Norodom Sihanouk, Royal Father of Independence, Territorial Integrity and National Unity.”
The Assembly also plans to continue granting a portion of the national budget to Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Monineath, which will allow them to carry out charity work, he said. Prince Ranariddh did not disclose the amount of money the Assembly will allocate.
Prince Ranariddh also said he is ready for his new role as unofficial adviser to King Sihamoni, his younger half-brother. “A number of royal family members asked me to be the chef de famille,” or head of the family, he said. “In my capacity as an older brother and National Assembly president, I will give him some ideas, not advice.”
