Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is confident the legislation will be approved
Thailand’s long-discussed casino bill is still expected to move forward, despite recent delays and increasing criticism. The proposal, which would legalize casinos as part of larger entertainment complexes, was originally scheduled to reach Parliament during the previous session but was pushed back. The government explained the postponement was due to urgent economic matters, including ongoing trade tensions involving US tariffs.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, speaking publicly in Chiang Mai, said the delay shouldn’t be seen as a setback. He stressed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and the current administration remain committed to the bill and will move ahead when the time is right. According to Thaksin, there is sufficient support within Parliament to pass the legislation.
Thaksin also addressed public backlash, arguing that some critics are misrepresenting the bill’s goals by suggesting it only aims to open standalone casinos. He explained that the true intent is to create full-scale leisure complexes that include casinos among other entertainment options, positioning the plan as a broader economic development effort.
Concerns over division within the ruling coalition have grown in recent weeks. Bhumjaithai Party secretary-general Chaichanok Chidchob made headlines after expressing opposition to casino legalization.
However, party leader Anutin Charnvirakul later clarified that this was not the official position of the party. Thaksin also downplayed the remarks, saying disagreements within the coalition are not unusual and can be worked out internally.
Despite the growing public debate, government leaders appear confident that the casino bill will eventually move forward. With the Pheu Thai Party still holding a strong position in Parliament, supporters of the bill believe that any pushback from within the Senate or rival parties can be handled without derailing the proposal. The bill is now expected to be revisited in the next legislative term.
