Today, however, saw Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the major supporter of the ‘casino bill,’ dismissed from his position as Thailand's Prime Minister, Thai news media reported.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was dismissed from his position by the Constitutional Court after he was found guilty of “gross violation of ethics” for appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister.
The ruling included the termination of all positions in the cabinet, although ministers will still stay on in a caretaker capacity. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will serve as Acting Prime Minister until a new premier can be selected by the House of Representatives.
Srettha respected the court’s decision, and said he would still like to contribute to the nation in other roles.
Key government policies, such as the TBH10,000 (US$285.43) digital wallet scheme, the Land Bridge initiative and soft power projects, would be determined by the future government, said Srettha. In this case, it might also include the decision on whether to proceed with the 'Casino Bill' in the future.
The list of possible future Prime Minister candidates include Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party. The Bhumjaithai Party was the second-largest party in the coalition and also a staunch opposition of the former PM’s decision to legalise gambling.
It would be too early to know if the legalisation of gambling and casinos in Thailand would be affected by the sudden change in leadership – but it is certainly a possibility.
Earlier, four of Macau’s ‘Big Six’ concessionaires had expressed their interest in Thailand. This might be an unexpected turn of events for everyone involved.
