Leaders of Thailand’s coalition parties, Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, reassured the public of their alliance’s stability after Bhumjaithai Secretary-General Chaichanok Chidchob opposed the casino legalization bill during a parliamentary debate.
His comments, made without party approval, raised concerns about discord within the coalition.
According to The Nation, Chaichanok, son of influential Bhumjaithai figure Newin Chidchob, declared his opposition to the bill “no matter who proposed it,” shocking party leaders. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul clarified that Chaichanok’s remarks were personal opinions, not official party policy, and confirmed the party’s support for the bill.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra dismissed suggestions of conflict, emphasizing mutual concern for national issues. She noted that Chaichanok’s comments may have arisen during the heated debate and insisted that no significant damage had occurred.
Anutin reiterated that Bhumjaithai MPs must seek party approval before debating in Parliament, which Chaichanok failed to do. Despite this incident, Anutin reaffirmed the entertainment complex bill had already received Cabinet approval, including support from eight Bhumjaithai ministers.
The coalition partners agreed to support the bill during an April 8th meeting, though a few MPs cited religious objections. Anutin mentioned that one MP, Chada Thaiset, abstained from voting for this reason, highlighting individual dissent within the coalition.
Thailand has postponed a parliamentary debate on a bill that would legalize casinos amid mounting opposition and a concerning international trade environment.
On Wednesday protesters even gathered outside the Thai parliament demanding the bill be scrapped altogether rather than merely delayed, citing concerns about its potential social impact.
