Thai Party Blocks Snooker Delisting From Gambling Law
The Proud Thai Party is blocking a proposed law amendment that would remove snooker from Thailand's gambling list, arguing that any relaxation of gambling restrictions could worsen social problems including crime and youth issues.
Wachrapong Kuewijitsuwanna, a Saraburi MP from the Proud Thai Party, addressed criticism from former Thai snooker player Arthit Mahit, who posted on Facebook objecting to the government's refusal to endorse a gambling law amendment proposed by Nonthaburi MP Nont Paisallimlae of the People's Party to remove snooker from the gambling list. Wachrapong stated that the Proud Thai Party and Prime Minister Anutin have consistently opposed expanding legal gambling and maintain strict control principles.
Wachrapong explained that the Proud Thai Party views all forms of gambling as a significant factor contributing to social problems, including crime, household financial instability, and youth risk. Therefore, any gambling-related policy or legal changes must be considered holistically, not merely for the benefit of certain industries or operators. The party has maintained this stance consistently, and when Anutin previously held the position of Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, he openly opposed casino proposals in Entertainment Complex projects, doubting such initiatives would solve underground gambling problems and expressing concerns about impacts on youth and education.
That political disagreement previously led to conflict and ultimately the Proud Thai Party's withdrawal from the government coalition. Now, with the Proud Thai Party back in a leading role, the position on gambling remains unchanged. Anutin has previously cancelled orders attempting to legalize certain poker and card games for sports and competition purposes to prevent gambling expansion. Similarly, regarding the recent snooker delisting proposal from People's Party MPs, Anutin refuses to endorse the bill because the government must consider broader impacts including social problems, youth effects, crime, and risks from grey-market capital involvement. Wachrapong concluded: "This is not about blocking snooker as a sport or affecting those in the industry, but rather setting boundaries to prevent gambling-related activities from expanding beyond control. Once a loophole opens, the government's responsibility extends beyond today to the long-term social consequences."
