Bangkok: "Charan" points out the dead end of the Complex Law, which contains "Casino", which conflicts with the national strategy and the sufficiency economy, and warns that foreign investment mega projects are at risk of "policy corruption".
According to Thai News Agency, the government's push for "legal casinos", which was announced on June 26, 2015, faced criticism when Mr. Charan Phakdeethanakul, a member of the Special Committee on the Study of Opening a Full-Service Entertainment Venue, expressed concerns about the project. He highlighted the risk of "policy corruption" associated with the project, which includes a casino, suggesting it might violate the constitution. The government has been promoting this project as a significant economic opportunity, claiming it will bring substantial revenue for national development. However, Mr. Charan warns that the project, requiring massive foreign investment, could lead to policy corruption.
Mr. Charan emphasized that combining a mega-project with an integrated entertainment policy and foreign investment could result in the project not being fully governed by Thai law. This scenario could facilitate policy corruption by enabling the government to pass laws that pave the way for the project, making corruption allegations difficult to substantiate. This has raised public suspicion about the possible hidden motives behind foreign-funded casinos.
He further asserted that the public has the right to demand scrutiny and investigation into laws related to foreign investment and potential policy corruption. The Thai Constitution mandates citizens to help prevent and combat corruption and misconduct.
Mr. Charan highlighted concerns regarding the 'State Policy' under the 2017 Constitution. The Constitution mandates that the 'National Strategy' align with 'Good Governance' and the 'Sufficiency Economy' principle for sustainable development. The draft bill on integrated entertainment venues, including casinos, has been criticized for not supporting sustainable national development and misaligning with Sufficiency Economy principles. Major religious organizations, educational institutions, and various societal sectors have voiced opposition, fearing the bill could lead to societal decline and a shift in moral values.
Mr. Charan is confident that if the government proceeds with the bill in parliament, a case might be brought before the 'Constitutional Court' to assess its constitutional validity. He noted that reviewing such a significant issue would involve extensive deliberation and evidence gathering, given its unprecedented nature.
In conclusion, Mr. Charan identified the 'Thai Constitution' as the primary obstacle to the draft law's enactment.