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Thai opposition targets casino bill in no-confidence debate

The Thai opposition is set to file a no-confidence motion against the government on February 27th, with the Thai Sang Thai Party (TST) vowing to target the administration’s controversial entertainment complex policy, which it claims is a disguised effort to legalize casinos.

According to the Bangkok Post, opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut confirmed that the motion would be filed in parliament under Section 151 of the constitution, with the opposition pushing for a five-day debate. However, the government may limit discussions to three days.

Thai opposition targets casino bill in no-confidence debate
Thai Sang Thai Party (TST) leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan

TST leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan has strongly criticized the entertainment complex bill, recently approved by the cabinet, calling it one of the “worst pieces of legislation ever written.” She argues that the policy is a thinly veiled attempt to introduce legal casinos under the guise of economic development.

Sudarat warned that control over these complexes would be concentrated in the hands of a single board dominated by politicians, raising concerns over transparency and governance. “This policy is not about entertainment or economic growth—it’s about opening the door to legalized gambling with little oversight,” she said.

Speaking after a strategic meeting at Sudarat’s residence, Natthaphong accused the government of inefficiency, negligence, and conflicts of interest. He stated that the debate would expose the administration’s failure to address pressing social issues.

People’s Party (PP) deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakul revealed that the opposition has identified around 30 key issues for the debate, though the final list remains flexible. The opposition is determined to hold the government accountable and use the debate as an opportunity to highlight corruption and mismanagement.

Government Chief Whip Wisut Chainarun indicated that the administration would push to shorten the debate to three days. He dismissed opposition claims, stating that the government is fully prepared for the discussions and has anticipated the main points of attack.

“We’re ready for the debate and have been for some time. We’ve reviewed the opposition’s claims and will respond accordingly,” Wisut said.

Viviana Chan
Viviana Chanhttps://agbrief.com/
Viviana Chan is an editor, interpreter, and journalist. With over a decade of experience, she writes in English, Chinese, and Portuguese. Viviana started her career in Macau-based newspapers, where she became passionate about the region's social, financial, and cultural development. Her writing focuses on the economy, emerging industries, gaming development, political affairs, and cross cultural-exchange in the business and cultural domains. She is avid for news and eager to discover and cover stories that generate public relevance.

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