Bangkok: Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has clarified recent allegations that coalition parties were coerced into supporting a draft bill on the development of an entertainment complex. Thaksin dismissed claims that parties were threatened with expulsion from the coalition if they opposed the bill. Instead, he described the situation as a political bargaining game, emphasizing that discussions were merely exploratory and aimed at gathering opinions.
According to Thai News Agency, Thaksin explained that he had informal conversations with younger politicians to gauge their views on the entertainment complex bill. He insisted there was no ultimatum that dissenting parties would be removed from the coalition. Thaksin further noted that Prime Minister had prioritized urgent economic issues, such as the US tax increase, over the immediate consideration of the entertainment complex bill.
Thaksin acknowledged the complexities of managing multiple coalition parties, which inevitably leads to differing opinions. However, he expressed confidence that open dialogue and explanation could foster understanding among the parties. He also denied rumors that the winner of the entertainment business license had been predetermined, assuring that any such project would involve a transparent auction process.
Addressing public concerns, Thaksin clarified that the term "casino" was not applicable to the proposed entertainment complex, asserting that it encompassed broader investment opportunities such as concert halls and amusement parks. He stressed the importance of attracting investment, creating employment, and generating tourism revenue, while ensuring proper taxation.
Thaksin urged the government to communicate effectively with the public to mitigate misunderstandings and reiterated the importance of aligning actions with the country's developmental goals. He expressed disappointment that some parties, previously supportive of similar policies, now stood in opposition, attributing this shift to political dynamics rather than policy substance.
On the topic of legislative hurdles, Thaksin stated that if the draft law could not be passed during the current government's term, the subsequent government, which he confidently predicted would be led by the Pheu Thai Party, could continue the process. He emphasized that any delays at the Senate level were anticipated and part of the legislative process.
Thaksin dismissed speculation that political maneuvering, including offering inducements to coalition parties, was involved in advancing the bill. He maintained that the development of the entertainment complex was rooted in good intentions for national progress, and efforts would continue to ensure transparency and public benefit.
In concluding remarks, Thaksin underscored the need for a system to regulate and monitor gambling activities within the entertainment complex, highlighting measures such as identity verification to ensure financial security. He called for understanding and collaboration to achieve the country's development objectives, while acknowledging that any change would naturally face opposition.