Bangkok: Anutin Charnvarikul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, has expressed concern over the government’s recent push to legalize poker gambling, arguing that it distracts from more pressing issues.

According to Thai News Agency, Anutin criticized the swift move by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Phumtham Wechayachai, who signed an order to legalize poker, suggesting that it diverts attention from crucial assistance needed for villagers along the Thai-Cambodian border.

Anutin, who has consistently voiced his disapproval of gambling, highlighted his belief that gambling can be more destructive than other social issues, stating, “Ten fires are not as bad as one loss.” He urged the government to focus on expediting aid and negotiations for those affected by migration issues due to the Cambodian invasion, stressing the importance of a peaceful resolution.

When questioned about whether the legalization of poker gambling could pave the way for a comprehensive entertainment complex law, Anutin acknowledged the possibility. However, he emphasized the need for adherence to existing gambling laws and voiced skepticism about using gambling as a means to promote tourism, describing such rationale as illogical.

Anutin also addressed the recent political dynamics, laughing off suggestions that the Pheu Thai Party’s decision to exclude the Bhumjaithai Party from the coalition government was linked to the gambling issue. He remarked on the irony of the swift attention given to gambling, despite ongoing unresolved issues concerning local communities and border disputes.