Rolling the dice: Pheu Thai MPs bet on casino and amnesty bills
Pheu Thai lawmakers have been directed to advocate for the casino-entertainment complex and political amnesty bills within their constituencies during the Parliamentary recess. This effort aims to facilitate the smooth passage of these bills.
Pheu Thai spokesperson and Member of Parliament Danuporn Punnakanta stated that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra advised party MPs to assess public opinion on several issues, including the government’s initiative to legalise casino gambling, which has stirred tensions within the government coalition.
Cabinet ministers from Pheu Thai have been encouraged to join MPs in engaging with constituents to collaboratively address public concerns and develop comprehensive solutions.
Regarding the amnesty bill, Danuporn emphasised defining its scope to prevent future conflicts.
“We don’t want these bills to spark massive protests that could affect the structural integrity of the country.”
Discussions on the casino-entertainment complex bill, initially scheduled for the current Parliamentary session, have been delayed until the next session commencing on July 2.
Observers suggest that the bill’s passage is unlikely due to opposition from the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest political party in the coalition. The party’s secretary general, Chaichanok Chidchob, opposes the bill, although Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul clarified that Chaichanok’s views are personal and not reflective of the party’s position. Anutin reiterated the party’s commitment to supporting the prime minister’s policy, reported Bangkok Post.
Chief government whip Wisut Chainarun mentioned that public sentiment towards the casino-entertainment complex bill has notably improved.
He observed that as “people have more understanding [of the bill], it will move ahead.”
Wisut claimed most Thais are not against the bill; they simply seek more information, particularly regarding its economic benefits. The bill’s progress in the next session will hinge on the success of these public discussions.
In similar news, a group of Phuket locals has come together to oppose the controversial casino bill, urging the government to halt its progress. Dressed in white shirts, they gathered at Phuket Provincial Hall to submit a petition rejecting the proposal for casinos in the popular tourist destination.
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