Thailand parliament postpones casino bill as political crisis deepens

Thailand’s proposed Entertainment Complex Bill, aimed at legalizing integrated resort casinos, has been postponed indefinitely, with political turmoil and a cross-border conflict derailing its scheduled reading in parliament.

Originally set for a July 9 review, the bill’s future is now uncertain as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra grapples with a crisis threatening her coalition’s stability. Tensions escalated following a border clash with Cambodia, which resulted in a Cambodian soldier’s death and provoked nationalist backlash.

The situation worsened after a leaked phone call surfaced between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, in which the Thai leader appeared to criticize her own military. The fallout prompted the Bhumjaithai Party to exit the ruling alliance and vow to oppose the bill, further jeopardizing its passage.

“Angering the military is never a good idea in Thailand,” said the Council on Foreign Relations, referencing the country’s long history of coups and military intervention in politics.

The legislation, which passed the House earlier this year, proposes the development of up to five integrated resorts across the country. Analysts have described it as a major initiative for the Pheu Thai-led government’s economic and tourism strategy.

However, the bill has also drawn scrutiny due to its association with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a vocal casino supporter and father of the current prime minister. Thaksin, who was ousted in a 2006 coup and returned from exile in 2023, is viewed by critics as the administration’s de facto leader.

While the delay signals to ongoing conflict in the governing coalition, at the same time, it could also work in favor of supporters. The additional time might provide the government a new opportunity to change the minds of those who fear the move could pave the way for vice and organized crime into the country.

“There is still a lack of public understanding about the purpose of this bill,” said Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. “The government needs more time to thoroughly explain its intent to the public before it proceeds to parliament.”

“We need to start with softer issues first, until the political climate becomes more favourable,” added Coalition Whip Wisut Chainarun.

No new date has been announced for the bill’s return to the legislative agenda. The Bangkok Post described the proposal as “a litmus test” for Paetongtarn, who assumed office less than a year ago and narrowly survived a no-confidence vote in March.

While supporters say the bill could boost tourism and generate revenue, critics argue it risks introducing vice and organized crime into the country. The delay, some observers say, may buy the government time to reshape public opinion before reigniting debate.