Growing Opposition to Thailand’s Casino Bill Ahead of Parliamentary Debate
BANGKOK, Thailand – As the debate on the controversial casino bill approaches next week in parliament, more Thai citizens and civil groups are voicing their opposition. The bill, proposed by the government led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, aims to create entertainment complexes with integrated casinos to boost tourism and curb illegal gambling. However, it has sparked widespread resistance among various segments of Thai society.
Widespread Public Campaign Against the Casino Bill
The growing public outcry against the bill has led many netizens to join social media campaigns expressing their opposition. Across Facebook, Thai citizens are posting messages such as “I am against the casino bill” or “I don’t want Thailand to have a casino”, often alongside a red banner. Some have even shared these posts as a way to rally more people to the cause.
A campaign led by Jatuporn Prompan, a former red-shirt leader and prominent anti-Thaksin advocate, has been gaining momentum. He is encouraging supporters to wear white to symbolize their opposition to the casino bill. Recently, Jatuporn and other activists gathered near Government House to protest against the draft bill, which they believe is not just about building an entertainment complex, but primarily about establishing casinos.
Arguments Against the Bill
Opponents of the bill argue that casinos will bring negative consequences such as increased gambling addiction, social problems, and potential impacts on Thai culture. They claim that the government’s true intention is to push for legalized gambling under the guise of an entertainment complex.
The anti-casino campaign has garnered significant traction, with over 112,000 signatures collected in an online petition. Activists argue that public opinion should be taken into account before advancing the bill.
Government’s Defense of the Bill
In contrast, the government has defended the bill, claiming that the casino would make up only a small portion (about 10%) of the overall complex. The government argues that the project aims to eliminate underground gambling, particularly online gambling, while also boosting tourism and providing economic benefits to the country.
Growing Support from Civil Society and Medical Professionals
Alongside Jatuporn’s campaign, other civil society groups have joined the opposition, including the Academy of Moral and Political Science at the Royal Society of Thailand. This group, although not an administrative body, has significant academic and intellectual influence and has publicly stated that legalized gambling is not appropriate for Thailand.
The Stop Gambling Foundation, a leading anti-gambling advocacy group, has also launched a petition titled “We don’t want a casino” and has called on people to sign it.
Additionally, senior medical professionals have weighed in against the bill, raising concerns over the potential health and social impacts of legalized gambling in the country.
The Debate Ahead
As the parliamentary debate on the casino bill approaches, it is clear that public opposition is gaining strength. The growing protests and petitions signal a heated debate ahead, with both sides preparing to present their arguments. The future of the casino bill remains uncertain, and many are watching closely to see if public opinion and civil society efforts will influence the final decision in parliament.
