According to Thai news media, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the main supporter of the "Casino Act," has been removed from office.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was found guilty of "serious ethical misconduct" by the Constitutional Court for appointing former criminal Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister, leading to his dismissal.
The ruling includes the dismissal of all cabinet positions, but ministers will remain in a caretaker capacity. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will serve as acting Prime Minister until a new one is elected by the House of Representatives.
Srettha respects the court's decision and expressed his willingness to contribute to the nation in other capacities.
Srettha stated that key government policies, such as the TBH10,000 ($285.43) digital wallet scheme, the land bridge project, and soft power initiatives, will be decided by the future government. This situation might also include deciding whether to continue pursuing the "Casino Act."
Possible future prime ministerial candidates include Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Thai People's Party, Anutin Charnvirakul. The Thai People's Party is the second largest party in the coalition government and a staunch opponent of the former prime minister's decision to legalize gambling.
It is currently unclear whether the legalization of gambling and casinos in Thailand will be affected by the sudden change in leadership, but it is certainly possible.
Previously, four of the six major gambling operators in Macau had expressed interest in entering the Thai market. This could be an unexpected turn for all parties involved.
