A proposal to legalize a casino-entertainment complex in Thailand has drawn sharp criticism from a Senate special committee, with some members calling for a public referendum before any further steps are taken. Lawmakers raised concerns that the current draft law could conflict with the constitution and allow too much unchecked power in the hands of a small group.
As reported by the Bangkok Post, the committee warned that the bill may be unconstitutional if pushed forward in its current form. The lack of public input, unclear financial structure, and broad powers granted to a central policy board were among the key points of concern during the meeting.
Good to know
- Prime Minister’s explanation on the bill was postponed to June 5.
- Critics say the plan lacks bidding, hearings, and transparency.
- Rumored locations include Bangkok’s Klong Toey Port and Chiang Mai.
During a committee session on Thursday led by Sen Veerapun Suvannamai, members focused on reviewing the draft bill tied to the casino-entertainment project. Though Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was scheduled to present the government’s view, she was away on an official trip to Vietnam. Her deputy, Julapun Amornvivat, also could not attend. The committee has rescheduled Paetongtarn’s appearance to June 5.
In her absence, the group turned to the technical and legal issues of the bill itself.
Casino Cabinet and Power Centralization
Senator Chirmsak Pinthong criticized the draft for concentrating too much power in a new policy board chaired by the prime minister. He called the board a “casino cabinet” and warned that it could act without proper oversight. One issue he flagged was the lack of a clear revenue structure—state income from casino operations would be capped at 5 billion baht but with no guaranteed minimum.
He also questioned the absence of public hearings, environmental reviews, and any competitive bidding process for licenses.
Klong Toey Among Key Locations Under Discussion
Rumors have pointed to several possible locations for the casino, including a massive plot of 3,800 rai at Klong Toey Port in Bangkok. To use that land, the government would need to amend the Port Act. The estimated land value sits at around 1.2 million baht per square wah. If just 10% of the site is developed for casino use, it would give investors access to land worth around 100 billion baht. Yet in return, the state might only receive 1.1 billion baht annually through concessions.
Other suggested sites include U-Tapao in Chon Buri and San Kamphaeng in Chiang Mai.
Long-Term Risks for the Country
Chirmsak warned that locking in a 30-year casino concession could create financial problems for future governments, especially if the project underperforms. Fellow committee member Kaewsan Atibhoti added that the structure of the deal could be slanted in favor of foreign investors, raising further doubts about who would really benefit.
As debate continues, critics say the public should have a direct say before any such bill is passed into law.
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