Anti-casino protests in Thailand led Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to delay the Entertainment Complex bill, emphasizing stakeholder opinions amid political turmoil and a looming no-confidence vote.
Anti-casino protests surged outside Thailand’s Government House, prompting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to announce that the Entertainment Complex (EC) bill isn’t ready for Cabinet discussion. Amid a looming vote of no confidence on March 24, she emphasized the government’s need to consider stakeholders’ opinions regarding this significant project.
Protesters threatened to escalate their demonstrations if the bill advanced, with former “red shirt” activist Jatuporn Prompan calling for unity against casino legalization, which he claims could harm the nation. Observers have expressed skepticism about the government’s reasoning for the delay, suggesting deeper political motives at play.
Concerns about the bill include a hefty entrance fee for locals, estimated at $1.5 million. Analysts highlight that internal tensions between coalition partners may hinder progress on essential legislation like the EC bill, intensifying the political landscape ahead of critical votes.
Source : Protesters disrupt Thailand entertainment complex bill vote
