Thai casino bill first reading delayed amid political tension
The government cites a need for better public understanding and a more favourable political climate.
Thailand.- The Thai government has postponed the first reading of the Entertainment Complex Bill that was scheduled for July 9. It cited public misunderstanding of the proposal and political challenges. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri said greater transparency was needed to clarify the bill’s intent before it proceeds to Parliament.
The legislation aims to legalise casinos within large-scale entertainment complexes. Charoensri clarified that only about 10 per cent of the bill pertains to casino operations, with the majority focusing on trade exhibitions, entertainment events and economic promotion. “There is still a lack of public understanding about the purpose of this bill,” she said, adding that the government requires more time to engage with citizens.
Wisut Chainarun, chairman of the government whip said political fractures and border tensions with Cambodia had disrupted planned public awareness campaigns. “We planned seminars and talk shows throughout June, but that didn’t happen,” he said.
A recent survey by Thailand’s National Institute of Development Administration showing a majority of Thais oppose the proposed casino legalisation. A petition with 53,900 signatures submitted to the Election Commission calls for a national referendum on the issue.
Meanwhile, prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s coalition, led by the Pheu Thai Party, faces challenges following the withdrawal of the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest coalition partner. However, tensions with Cambodia could support the case for legalisation since Thais had been travelling to up to 30 casinos along Cambodia’s border.
Charoensri dismissed suggestions that the delay was prompted by opposition pressure, asserting that “the government always listens to the people and takes their voices into account.”. The timeline for revisiting the casino legislation remains uncertain.
