In a heated debate surrounding the proposed Entertainment Complex Act, Pichit Chaiyamongkol, a prominent leader of the People's Network, has firmly rejected the idea of legalizing casinos and online gambling in Thailand. His remarks come after Prime Minister Phaetongtharn Shinawatra announced that the government would postpone discussions on the bill, originally scheduled for April 9, 2025.
Pichit expressed his discontent with the Prime Minister's decision, stating that merely delaying the legislation does not equate to halting it entirely. He accused the Prime Minister of attempting to "deceive the public" with what he termed a "fake postponement." He emphasized, "The Prime Minister suggested delaying the proposal of the Entertainment Complex Act. The people's demand is to 'stop' it, not just delay it. We do not want casinos and online gambling in Thailand."
Despite the postponement, Pichit affirmed that protests against the casino bill would continue as planned. He urged citizens from provinces across the country to join demonstrations at their respective locations, reinforcing the message that the movement seeks to eliminate casinos from Thai society altogether.
On the same day, Prasert Chanthararuangthong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, commented on the ongoing discussions about the Entertainment Complex Act. He acknowledged the Senate's opposition to the bill, which had been brought up during an April 8 meeting. He noted that a senator had proposed holding a referendum to gauge public opinion regarding the legalization of casinos.
Prasert stated, "The April 8 parliamentary session was intended to gather opinions and did not reach a final decision." He supported the idea of a public referendum, believing it would allow citizens to voice their opinions, although he clarified that the government would ultimately have the final say in the matter.
While discussing the timeline for public education regarding the bill, Prasert mentioned that it might take about two months to ensure the public fully understands the implications of the proposed legislation. He also pointed out that the Senate's resolution to delay the bill does not mean it has been dismissed entirely; rather, it remains on the agenda for future consideration.
During the discussions, Pichit raised concerns about the necessity of casinos in Thailand, citing examples of other countries that have banned them altogether. He stated that proceeding without a public referendum contradicts democratic principles. His sentiments reflect a growing apprehension among various groups regarding the potential impact of casinos on Thai society.
In response to queries about the potential backlash from anti-casino groups, Prasert acknowledged the need for better communication and understanding of the bill's content. "Many groups and individuals still do not grasp the essential details, and they have the right to express their criticism," he said. He emphasized the importance of addressing public concerns during the legislative process.
Furthermore, Nophadol, a government official, expressed the need for Thailand to maintain a balanced relationship with global powers like the United States and China, while ensuring that national interests remain the priority amidst the ongoing discussions about the Entertainment Complex Act.
As the debate unfolds, the Thai government faces mounting pressure from both sides of the issue. Those in favor of the bill argue that it could enhance tourism and economic growth, while opponents fear the societal repercussions that casinos may bring.
In a related statement, Nattakorn clarified that the proposed legislation would only allow casinos within designated entertainment complexes, not across the entire country. This distinction aims to alleviate concerns about widespread gambling in Thailand.
As the April 9 public hearing approaches, the tension surrounding the Entertainment Complex Act continues to escalate. Advocates for the bill argue that it could create jobs and stimulate the economy, while opponents, led by figures like Pichit, are determined to halt any progress toward legalization.
The outcome of this debate will not only shape the future of gambling in Thailand but also reflect the government's responsiveness to public opinion. With both sides preparing for a significant showdown, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of the Entertainment Complex Act and the potential establishment of casinos in the country.
As citizens await the government’s next steps, the dialogue surrounding the Entertainment Complex Act serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in balancing economic development with societal values. The question remains: will the Thai government heed the voices of the people, or will it push forward with its plans for casinos?
