Thailand Pushes Forward with Casino Bill Amidst Backlash
Despite mounting pressure from opposition groups, the Thailand government is pushing forward with its plans to develop an integrated entertainment complex.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said the entertainment complex bill will be presented to the House of Representatives this July. While the Bhumjaithai Party has voiced its disapproval, he believes their opposition won't be enough to stall the project's progress.
Julapun asserted that the Coalition Government possesses the necessary parliamentary numbers to push the bill through its first reading and subsequent stages. He and other officials remain optimistic that the legislation will be passed within the original one-year timeline set by the administration.
The government has a good reason to push the project. As a crucial pillar of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's economic strategy, the project is expected to boost investment, tourism and job opportunities in several provinces.
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Growing Resistance to Entertainment Complex
Political parties are not the only ones opposing the casino bill. Last week, a coalition of civic groups submitted a petition to the Thailand Election Commission, demanding that lawmakers put the Entertainment Complex Act to a public vote. The petition, which started receiving signatures in early January, surpassed the required 50,000 signatures in May.
The anti-casino network is worried that the proposed entertainment complex will lead to increased problem gambling, social issues, and crime, ultimately outweighing any potential economic benefits.
The Finance Minister underscored the government's commitment to operate transparently and consult with the public, promising to factor in feedback as the project advances.
The project, he said, holds considerable promise for Thailand's economy and society, and the government will handle it responsibly to ensure enduring public benefits.
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