Disunity in Thailand’s ruling coalition casts shadow over casino bill
Tensions are rising within Thailand’s ruling coalition as the Pheu Thai Party and its key partner, Bhumjaithai, increasingly find themselves at odds, raising fresh concerns about the government’s stability and the future of key legislative priorities, including the long-anticipated Entertainment Complex project, a.k.a. the casino bill.
What started as a pragmatic alliance post-2023 general election now shows signs of strain. Media reports reveal accusations of vote-fixing during the 2024 Senate election, linked to Bhumjaithai, which have eroded trust between the parties. While both deny serious fallout, analysts believe the relationship is weakening beneath the surface.
Speculation is mounting that Bhumjaithai may withhold support for the 2026 budget bill, which could trigger a House dissolution if the government fails to pass it. The party may also abandon its support for PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s casino bill. Despite official reassurances of unity, observers warn that unresolved tensions could have far-reaching implications for domestic governance and political continuity.
Fallout over ministerial berths?
At the centre of the disagreement is a subtle power struggle over ministerial roles. Bhumjaithai is miffed over calls about considering replacing its interior ministry position. This position has significant administrative sway, particularly as the government attempts to enact significant reforms like legalising gambling.
In the meantime, the Entertainment Complex project’s draft legislation is being advanced by the government led by Pheu Thai. The bill is currently being reviewed by parliament after receiving cabinet approval. If approved, it might open the door for casino-equipped integrated resorts that seek to increase foreign investment, tourism, and tax income.
Bhumjaithai’s position on the legalisation of casinos, however, is purposefully vague. The party has refrained from publicly opposing the initiative, but it has also refrained from expressing support for it.
Silence on the casino bill
Despite this, Bhumjaithai’s continued hold on the interior ministry could offer the party indirect influence over how gambling reforms are implemented, particularly at the provincial and regulatory levels.
Legal experts warn that any move to dissolve a party over the Senate election controversy would require substantial evidence. For now, investigations are ongoing, but the political climate remains tense.
With the Entertainment Complex project holding high hopes among international operators, the future of Thailand’s gaming landscape may well hinge on whether the ruling coalition can maintain its fragile balance or if simmering divisions will spark broader political shifts.
