Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva Rejects Casino Bill
- ACN Staff
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva warns that legalizing casinos and online gambling in Thailand could worsen social issues, calling gambling harmful to families.
Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has strongly criticized the government's plan to legalize casinos and online gambling in Thailand, warning that such a move would exacerbate existing social issues.
Speaking at a seminar on the push to legalize gambling, Abhisit called gambling a "major social problem" that has caused significant harm not only to individuals but also to their families.
"Since the legalization of casinos and online gambling is now high on the government's agenda, Thai citizens must prepare for the negative consequences," he said.
The proposal to legalize casinos and online gambling was first introduced by the Pheu Thai Party during its campaign for the 2023 elections. The party argued that rather than criminalizing these activities and driving them underground, the government should regulate them and collect revenue from gambling and related enterprises. However, Abhisit pointed out that the party has not specified what additional activities might also be legalized.
He also noted the lack of any serious public discussion on the issue.
"I strongly oppose this plan... it is dangerous. Online gambling, in particular, will harm society by increasing household debt and, consequently, crime rates," Abhisit said.
Abhisit served as Thailand's Prime Minister from 2008 to 2011 and was the leader of the Democrat Party. Known for his strong stance on social issues and economic policies, Abhisit has frequently criticized the current administration for its handling of economic reforms, governance, and policies he believes prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability. He has opposed populist measures that he argues could lead to increased debt and social instability.
The government has justified the move by arguing that legal casinos would generate revenue through licensing fees and taxes, boost employment, and attract tourists. However, Abhisit warned that the potential risks could outweigh these benefits.
"I do not believe legalized casinos will benefit Thai workers because, in the end, migrant workers from neighboring countries are the ones most likely to be recruited to work in these complexes," he said.
He also stressed the importance of strict law enforcement to prevent potential money laundering through gambling and casino entertainment complexes.
Public Opposition and Legislative Hurdles
Nuannoi Trirat, director of the Centre for Gambling Studies, highlighted a recent survey conducted by the center, which found that over 50% of the 8,000 respondents opposed the plan to legalize casinos. She criticized the government for disregarding calls for a public referendum on the issue.
On January 13, the cabinet approved, in principle, a bill that would allow the establishment of casino-entertainment complexes. The government has given the Council of State, its legal advisory body, 50 days to review the bill before forwarding it to the House of Representatives for deliberation.
Despite public opposition, the government insists that no referendum is necessary, arguing that the policy has already been approved by parliament and was a key part of Pheu Thai's campaign platform.
Pakorn Nilprapunt, secretary-general of the Council of State, stated that the government wants the bill to be treated as an urgent matter, underscoring the 50-day review period set by the cabinet.
Read related article: 7 in 10 Thais Say No to Casino, Online Gambling: Survey
.png)
Comments