The future of Thailand's casino legalization bill has become more uncertain amid the country's political crisis. Prime Minister Patongtarn Shinawatra , the main driving force behind the legalization of land-based casinos in Thailand, was removed from office on July 1 by the country's Constitutional Court after a petition was filed demanding her resignation.

Shinawatra sparked outrage across the country after a recording of a phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen was leaked in which she appeared to criticise the Thai military's handling of the country's long-running territorial conflict with Cambodia.

Despite the apology, protesters took to the streets of Bangkok demanding her resignation. Bumjaithai's party had earlier quit Shinawatra's coalition government, leaving it with a fragile parliamentary majority.

Deputy Prime Minister Surya Juangruangkit will take over the prime minister's duties on an interim basis , but any initiatives promoted by Shinawatra are likely to be put on hold while her fate is being decided.

This includes a bill that would allow casinos to be opened as part of integrated resorts in popular tourist regions of Thailand. The document is currently being considered by a Senate committee and is scheduled to be submitted for discussion to the lower house of parliament in early July.

Shinawatra has 15 days to file evidence in her defense. If she is finally removed from power, the country will begin preparations for new elections, which could delay the bill. It is unclear whether her successor will support the initiative with the same enthusiasm.

Despite the government's efforts, there remains public wariness about the legalization of casinos. According to recently published data from the National Institute for Administrative Development (NIDA) , 57% of respondents oppose the establishment of entertainment centers and casinos in the country.

In addition, 61% of respondents support holding a referendum on the issue, an idea that was previously voiced by one of the key subcommittees dealing with the details of the bill.

Source