Fears are rising that the breakdown of the Thai Government could spark the downfall of Thailand’s casino bill.
Yesterday (18 June), Thailand’s Bhumjaithai Party, the second biggest party in the country’s coalition Government, withdrew following a phone leak between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former Premier Hun Sen.
This is particularly controversial given that Thailand is currently embroiled in an escalating border dispute with Cambodia. In the call. Shinawatra is said to have criticised the Thai army for its role in a clash with Cambodian troops that triggered the ongoing hostilities.
Although Shinawatra defended the conversation, claiming her comments were part of a strategy to ease border tensions, the Bhumjaithai Party say that her actions have “damaged the sovereignty and well-being of the country and the Thai Army”.
So far, both sides have implemented trade barriers, and earlier this week, Thailand placed a ban on its citizens entering Cambodia to work in casinos across the city of Poipet.
The Thai army, which issued the order, emphasised that it has been pursued in a bid to ensure the safety of Thai citizens.
Casino bill faces uncertainty
The political upheaval has left many questioning the future of Prime Minister Shinawatra’s position and the bills that she has supported during her reign.
The Bhumjaithai party holds 69 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives, and it is not yet clear if members of the other parties that are part of the country’s alliance will follow suit.
Following the exit, the Government has 261 MPs to 234 for the opposition. As a result, subsequent withdrawals mean the Shinawatra-led coalition could lose its majority and put Thailand on course for another election to select a new leader.
The weakened majority may also complicate the passage of policies such as the Entertainment Complex Bill, which seeks to bring casinos to Thailand as part of several integrated resorts.
The bill is currently being reviewed by a Senate Committee and is scheduled for debate in the House at the beginning of July.
