According to the Bangkok Post, the Thai Senate committee responsible for evaluating the casino entertainment complex bill may invite Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to attend a future meeting to explain the relevant positions and details.
The committee chairman, Senator Veerapun Suvannamai, stated that the second meeting of the committee is scheduled, with the main agenda including setting research directions and establishing related subcommittees. He denied reports that the Prime Minister would attend the meeting that day and emphasized that the meeting agenda has not yet been finalized.
"I am not sure where these news came from, we have not yet determined the agenda," Veerapun said. He added that the committee is considering inviting senior government officials, including the Prime Minister or relevant ministers, to attend the meeting on May 15 to provide further explanations.
The Senate review period for the bill is expected to be 180 days. Committee spokesperson, Senator Chaiyong Maneerungsakul, revealed that the committee will set up at least two specialized groups to conduct in-depth analysis of the economic and social impacts of the bill.
The entertainment complex bill proposes the legalization of casinos in specific areas. It was originally scheduled to be submitted to the House of Representatives for a first reading on April 9, but due to high public opposition, especially concerning the moral and social impacts of the proposal, which attracted widespread attention, the government decided to postpone the parliamentary deliberation until after the new session begins on July 2.
Many critics are concerned about the government accelerating the legislative process, pointing out that rushing forward without sufficient social consensus may violate parliamentary operational norms. The Senate's independent assessment is seen as a crucial step in whether the legislation can ultimately gain political support and public acceptance.
