A former Thai prime minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva has criticised the Thai government’s plan to legalise land-based casinos and online betting in the country, saying such steps will worsen social problems there that are associated with gambling.
His remarks, at a seminar about the gambling initiatives, were reported on Monday by the Bangkok Post newspaper.
“I disagree with the plan … this is dangerous. Online gambling, in particular, will have a negative impact on society, by increasing household debts and consequently crime rates,” he said.
Mr Abhisit (pictured in a file photo) represented the Democrat Party as prime minister from 2008 until his defeat in the 2011 parliamentary election.
The Bangkok Post reported that the legalisation of casinos – known locally as “entertainment complexes” – and of online gambling were proposed by the currently-governing grouping the Pheu Thai Party, during its campaign for the 2023 elections.
Mr Abhisit stated in his comments: “The government said that allowing casinos to open will allow it to collect revenue from operating licences and taxes, boost employment and attract tourists. But we have to weigh the benefits and risks carefully.”
He expressed concern that jobs created by a land-based sector might go to migrant workers from neighbouring countries.
Mr Abhisit also emphasised the need for strict law enforcement to prevent potential money laundering through legalised gambling channels.
Thailand’s cabinet approved in principle on January 13 the Entertainment Complex Bill for casino liberalisation, announced that day the country’s prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
The government has given the country’s Council of State, a law-review body, 50 days to consider the bill before it is due to be forwarded for deliberation by the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of the National Assembly.
