The future of Thailand’s casino bill looks increasingly uncertain as political turmoil continues in the nation.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the driving force behind efforts to bring land-based gaming to Thailand, was suspended on Tuesday (1 July) by the country’s constitutional court following a petition to oust her from leadership.
Shinawatra sparked nationwide outrage when a phone call with Cambodia’s former Premier Hun Sen was leaked, in which she appeared to criticise the actions of the Thai army in its continued border dispute with Cambodia.
Despite apologising for her actions, thousands of protestors gathered in Bangkok to call for her resignation. The Bhumjaithai Party also previously withdrew from Shinawatra’s coalition Government, leaving her with a razor-thin majority.
What does this mean for gambling?
It now appears that Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit will lead the Government in a caretaker role. However, the bills supported by Shinawatra during her reign will likely be paused as her future is considered.
The bill, which seeks to introduce casinos as part of integrated resorts in key tourist hotspots, is currently being reviewed by a Senate Committee and is scheduled for debate in the House at the beginning of July.
Shinawatra now has 15 days to respond with evidence to support her case against the suspension. If she is removed from power, there will be major delays as Thailand prepares for an election to select a new leader, and it is unknown if her successor would show the same level of support for the bill.
Public apathy
Despite the Government’s efforts, trepidation continues to linger over the casino legislation.
Recently published data from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) found that 57% of respondents were against entertainment centres and casinos.
61% of respondents also back a referendum on the issue, a proposition that was put forward by one of the major subcommittees examining the details of the bill.
