File photo for reference only

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra may face pressure from her father, de facto Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra, to dissolve Thailand's House of Representatives if the Bhumjaithai party blocks the casino legislation set for early July. This prediction comes from Thanaporn Sriyakul, a political analyst at Mahanakorn University of Technology.

 

The proposed bill to open casinos, presented under the guise of an entertainment complex, represents a significant piece of legislation for the Pheu Thai-led coalition government. It's backed by Thaksin, who sees mega-billions in potential profits from casino operations. However, the Bhumjaithai party, led in practice by Newin Chidchob, might abstain or vote against it, potentially derailing the bill.

 

Should the bill be blocked, Thanaporn suggests that Paetongtarn would have to dissolve the House and call for general elections within 60 days, rather than risk leaving her premiership vulnerable to Bhumjaithai's influence. Thaksin would likely prefer a new election rather than ceding control to the coalition's second-largest party.

 

An underlying tension between the Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai camps stems from legal action taken by the Department of Special Investigation against several senators linked to the latter. These senators face accusations of engaging in illegal activities, including vote-rigging and money-laundering.

 

The ongoing legal battles complicate matters, as these senators are involved in appointing members to key commissions and courts this year. The situation reflects a complex political landscape where Thaksin seeks to balance powers amid allegations and looming legislative challenges.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-16

 

 

hurry up, dissolve it already!

 

unfortunately, according to recent local elections, Pue thai is still strong... I hope PP can get its act together and change things... if only to help craft beer production expand