Politics Pheu Thai’s Casino Bill Stalls Amid Fierce Opposition and Coalition Tensions

[webfact]

File photo courtesy of Macao News

 

Pheu Thai Party faces a major setback as its ambitious casino-entertainment complex bill encounters fierce resistance from multiple quarters.

 

Initially set for a fast-tracked approval by April 9, the bill’s first reading in the House of Representatives has been postponed until the next parliamentary session on July 2. The decision comes amidst heated opposition, particularly from Bhumjaithai Party members and critics outside parliament.

 

Interior Minister and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul assures there's no internal party turmoil, despite party secretary-general Chaichanok Chidchob opposing the bill in parliament.

 

Meanwhile, senators affiliated with Bhumjaithai and other critics warn that the bill could face significant challenges moving forward. Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stresses the government’s commitment to transparency and public opinion before advancing the bill.

 

Public opposition mounts as stakeholders call for comprehensive studies on potential social impacts, criticising the rush to legalise casino complexes.

 

 

 

Many critics argue that the initiative not only lacks moral foundation but risks unconstitutional implications. Director Stithorn Thananithichot suggests a public referendum could be the fairest path to gauge sentiment on the controversial measure.

 

The government faces mounting pressure, balancing economic ambitions against potential political fallout.

 

Romours of demonstrations and large-scale protests loom if the bill progresses without public consent. However, some insiders speculate that Pheu Thai might navigate around coalition tensions to push the bill through, once parliamentary sessions resume.

 

A special Senate committee continues to assess the proposal, with findings expected in 180 days, underlining the bill's uncertain future.

 

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post

 

-- 2025-04-21

 

 

[Tropicalevo]

59 minutes ago, webfact said:

Initially set for a fast-tracked approval by April 9, the bill’s first reading in the House of Representatives has been postponed until the next parliamentary session on July 2.

 

They are just buying time whilst they renegotiate the deals with everyone.

Loyalty just became more expensive.

[Trippy]

If that story is true, I don't know what their worried about. With their exorbitant fee, I think in the billions of USD, plus a yearly fee in the 100's of millions of dollars, and the fact that only 10% of some massive complex could be a casino, I don't think gaming companies will be lining up to build it. 

[jippytum]

Thaksins not getting his own way trying to control this money pot. Other likewise politicians fighting for a place at the feeding trough. 

[black tabby12345]

Voice of conscience and reason in Thailand,  above the interests of the few billionaires/traitors.

Salute to the opposition.

 

[kingstonkid]

There has always been something that ptp lays it's life on and loses could this be it.

 

Unless a company clean as fresh snow comes in this is doomed.  They would be better off outlining how they have a major company coming in to set up a theme park.  

 

The casino is dead no one trusts Thai politicians to run it properly 

[watchcat]

13 hours ago, jippytum said:

Thaksins not getting his own way trying to control this money pot.

 

That's good.