More jobs: Thaksin defends casino complex in Maha Sarakham
In Maha Sarakham province, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra criticised opponents of the government’s proposed casino entertainment complex, accusing them of misrepresenting the project as merely a casino. Thaksin defended the plan, stating that less than 10% of the complex’s activities would involve gaming, with the majority dedicated to other attractions.
The 75 year old former prime minister highlighted that each location could create at least 20,000 jobs, with workers earning a minimum of 20,000 baht monthly. He accused critics of spreading misinformation by focusing solely on the casino aspect.
Thaksin noted that the idea of including a casino in an entertainment complex was initially considered during the Thai Rak Thai administration, predating Singapore’s first such complex.
“The idea faced strong opposition, particularly from hypocrites, while Singapore went ahead. Now, people have a better understanding of the concept, and we should proceed.”
Thaksin made these remarks while campaigning with a Pheu Thai candidate for the February 1 provincial administrative organisation election in Maha Sarakham.
Over the weekend, Thaksin, regarded as the de facto leader of the ruling Pheu Thai, dismissed calls for a public referendum on legalising casinos after the Cabinet approved the entertainment complex bill in principle last Tuesday, January 14.
Meanwhile, People’s Party MP Nont Paisanlimcharoenkit expressed concerns yesterday regarding the bill’s insufficient mechanisms to prevent money laundering. He pointed out that licenced operators were tasked with implementing anti-money laundering measures but warned that without oversight, there could be negligence on the government’s part.
The MP urged the government to incorporate mechanisms to prevent money laundering in the bill and require casinos to report financial transactions to a relevant committee for review and submission to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) for enhanced transparency.
List-Democrat MP Jurin Laksanawisit also spoke yesterday, January 20, suggesting that the contentious project should be subject to a public referendum, as it was not included in the election manifesto.
Senator Nantana Nantavaropas indicated that the Senate awaited further details to provide input on economic and social issues potentially arising from the project.
She acknowledged that a public referendum would entail high costs and complex details, but if these could be addressed, a referendum would be welcome, reported Bangkok Post.
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