The rise and revolt of ‘rescue girl’ thy sovantha

They are two young women full of hopes for their nation: High profile, energetic and not afraid to speak their mind. Thy Sovantha and Sin Rozeth are two young women fighting for two different visions of Cambodia. Photo: Jack Board.

The rise and revolt of ‘rescue girl’ thy sovantha: Teenage CNRP activist Thy Sovantha

Thy Sovantha and Sin Rozeth have perhaps far bigger profiles than their respective career achievements so far might suggest. Sovantha is a social media juggernaut - a hugely influential but controversial political maven, a turncoat for some, who rallies in the name of the ruling party. Rozeth defied expectations as a fresh and unversed opposition candidate swept into a most unlikely rule and then cut down in the purge of the Cambodia National Rescue Party CNRP last year.

But it is not what they have done so far that counts. It is their potential to inspire in a country deeply divided. The power of new youthful voices has never been realised under a strong armed-government installed since The old and forceful hands of the kingdom have a finite shelflife. Amid an array of fashionable outfits, she is also often adorned in ruling party colours.