Thailand Picks Anti-Casino Prime Minister: Gaming Bill at Risk

On Friday, Thailand’s parliament picked Anutin Charnvirakul, former interior minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, to be the next prime minister.

Charnvirakul, who is best known for championing medical cannabis legalization, is the leader of a party that had opposed the casino bill while part of the previous coalition. One of the strongest voices against legalizing casinos in Thailand, Charnvirakul's appointment changes the political math for the proposal and raises fresh questions about casinos in the country.

Earlier this year the cabinet approved a draft law to allow casinos inside integrated resorts. The bill treated casinos as one component of broader developments that would include hotels, malls, concert halls and theme-park style attractions. The government said it would limit access to Thai citizens and would tightly regulate the industry.