MAHA SARAKHAM: In a spirited address to fervent supporters on Monday, the seasoned political figure and former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, passionately debunked the critics of the government’s audacious proposal for a casino-entertainment complex. As detractors chanted, branding the development a mere casino, Thaksin countered their claims with fervor, accusing them of bending the truth. His argument: the ambitious venture was far more than what the nay-sayers claimed. According to Thaksin, gaming would be just a small portion of the allure, accounting for less than 10% of what the sprawling complex would offer.
“Think beyond the dice and cards,” Thaksin implored, painting a vivid picture of a dynamic hub brimming with attractions that promise to ignite the local economy. The former premier declared that each site would generate no fewer than 20,000 jobs, offering workers secure livelihoods with enticing salaries of no less than 20,000 baht per month. In his view, labeling the complex a mere casino was misinformation at its finest.
Thaksin reminisced about the infancy of the idea, hailing from the era of the Thai Rak Thai administration, way before Singapore showcased its own glitzy resorts. “We encountered fierce resistance back then, with hypocrites leading the charge, while Singapore went on to flourish. Today, the public grasps the vision more clearly, and it’s time we march ahead,” he asserted, his words resonating with determination on the campaign trail for a Pheu Thai candidate contesting the provincial administrative organization election slated for February 1 in Maha Sarakham.
Casting a reflective gaze over the weekend, Thaksin, widely regarded as the silent leader of the ruling Pheu Thai, dismissed clamors for a public referendum on legalizing casinos despite the cabinet’s green signal for the entertainment complex bill just last Tuesday. Meanwhile, concerns over the bill’s financial integrity echoed in the chambers of People’s Party (PP) MP Nont Paisanlimcharoenkit. “Where’s the oversight?” he questioned, fretting over the scant provisions against money laundering, and decrying the absence of robust safeguard mechanisms.
“Operators cannot police themselves; they must have accountability,” Nont insisted, urging for mandatory financial transaction disclosures to a specialized committee for evaluation and mandatory reporting to the Anti-money Laundering Office (Amlo) for heightened transparency.
In a concurrent cacophony of political voices, List-Democrat MP Jurin Laksanawisit chimed in, calling for the project’s fate to be penned by public consensus through a referendum — a move he deemed necessary as the plan was conspicuously absent from the election manifesto.
In a more measured tone, Senator Nantana Nantavaropas deliberated over the complexities awaiting the Senate’s scrutiny. On the subject of a public referendum, while acknowledging the significant cost and intricate details it entails, she conceded its potential value if navigated intelligently.
As the debate persists, the tale of Thaksin and the casino-entertainment complex sizzles with political intrigue, economic aspirations, and the perennial quest for social balance. It’s a story that refuses to roll the dice but instead plays a high-stakes game with public opinion and legislative precision.
This project sounds like a dream come true for local job seekers! Imagine all those jobs!
But at what cost? What about the social impact and possible rise in gambling addiction?
True, but if it’s only 10% gambling, isn’t the economic benefit worth considering?
The economic promise might be exaggerated. Many towns with casinos still struggle because most profits go elsewhere.
It was only a matter of time before Thailand followed Singapore’s lead. Patience paid off!
I think a public referendum is necessary. The people should have a say on such a huge cultural shift.
Referendums are costly and slow progress. We need action now, not extensive debates.
Exactly! Let the public weigh in. It’s our community that will change the most.
And if we don’t take this opportunity to vote, then we’re giving up our voice in the matter.
In a corrupt system, who ensures transparency? This might just become another money-laundering paradise.
That’s why there needs to be stringent oversight! No transparency means it’s doomed from the start.
Thaksin has pushed for transparency before. Aren’t we being a bit too skeptical here?
Enhanced measures must be in place. Without them, we’re risking too much.
Look at Macau, its economy boomed! Why wouldn’t Maha Sarakham benefit similarly?
If executed well, this could be huge for tourism and local businesses.
But Macau also has issues with crime and inequality. It’s not all roses.
Thaksin paints a rosy picture, but who’s to say it won’t just exploit locals?
The complex can be more than gambling, but social impacts need comprehensive strategies to mitigate.
Absolutely. Proactive measures are essential to balance economic gain with social stability.
I’m more concerned about traffic and urban congestion… Can the infrastructure handle this development?
Not without major updates, and those could be both disruptive and costly.
Call me a cynic, but politicians promising economic growth while skimping on regulations sounds familiar.
Even if only a small percentage is gambling, aren’t casinos inherently negative for society?
Casinos aren’t inherently negative. With proper regulation, they can be managed effectively.
True, but the regulatory body needs teeth. We’ve all seen rules bent or broken before.
It’s a strategic move by Thaksin to secure Pheu Thai voters ahead of the provincial elections.
How do projects like this affect cultural heritage sites? Shouldn’t there be studies or surveys?
I hope people focus on long-term benefits over short-term greed. Sustainable growth is key.
Would love to see the detailed plans for job distribution! Could be a game-changer for youth employment.