Chiang Mai, Thailand — Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra responded to the controversy surrounding the "Entertainment Complex Act" within the ruling coalition during a local festival event, emphasizing that the government will not waver in its determination to push forward reforms due to policy disagreements, while downplaying differences of opinion among coalition partners.
The "Entertainment Complex Act" led by the Pheu Thai Party, which includes provisions for the legalization of casinos, has caused ripples. Chai Chano Chijob, Secretary-General of the People's Power Party, publicly opposed the bill during a parliamentary debate last week, with his conservative stance clashing with the direction of the ruling coalition. As a new generation leader within the party, Chai Chano's questioning has raised concerns about the stability of the ruling coalition.
In response, Thaksin demonstrated political resilience: "We fully understand the differences in positions of our partners, but such policy disagreements can be effectively managed through dialogue mechanisms." He specifically pointed out that Anutin, the leader of the People's Power Party, has already expressed support for the bill to Prime Minister Padongtan (Thaksin's daughter), solidifying the foundation for cooperation between the two parties.
At the Songkran festival held in Rot Fai Park in Chiang Mai Province, Thaksin, dressed in traditional attire participating in the water splashing for blessings, reiterated the government's stance to the media: "The core of this bill is to create an international-level cultural and tourism complex, with gambling facilities occupying only a limited proportion of the overall plan. Opponents equate it simply to 'opening a casino,' which is a biased interpretation." He revealed that the cabinet will advance legislation based on respecting public opinion and emphasized that the ruling coalition has enough votes in parliament to ensure the bill's passage.
Regarding the recent rumors of a cabinet reshuffle, Thaksin displayed a cautious attitude: "This is within the prime minister's prerogative, and we will communicate fully at the appropriate time." Observers noted that hundreds of supporters gathered at the event site, wearing red cultural shirts printed with the nickname "Ing" of Padongtan, demonstrating the grassroots mobilization capability of the ruling party.
As a key balancer in Thai politics, Thaksin chose to convey political signals at traditional festivals, which is profound. It not only shows the ruling coalition's confidence in managing differences but also strengthens the connection with the public through folk activities, creating a favorable atmosphere for advancing the controversial bill. Analysts believe that his stance is both a strategic appeasement to the reformist faction within the party and a strategic response to potential opposition forces.
