Bangkok: “Krawee” expressed confusion and concern over the swift authorization of a poker tournament, uncovering evidence of online gambling activities. He criticized the rapid approval process and emphasized the need for quicker support for border residents.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Krawee Prisananantakul, a member of parliament for Ang Thong and chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Administration, disclosed that the Department of Provincial Administration and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports were invited to attend a poker tournament initially scheduled for July 30th. He pointed out the event’s legality concerns, revealing that no permit had been requested by the organizers. Despite this, the tournament was postponed by just one day, raising questions about the certainty of permit approval from the Ministry of Interior.

Mr. Krawee highlighted a critical issue when, on July 30th, the Minister of Interior rescinded a 1958 order and issued a notification allowing the poker tournament to proceed. This situation, he argues, requires close monitoring by the committee to address and prevent gambling in Thailand. He challenged the Ministry of Interior to clarify their stance and actions in light of these developments.

Documents and evidence indicate that gambling is occurring in these tournaments, with prize money offered through various websites. Mr. Krawee stressed that the Ministry of Interior should address this concern and urged Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, to prioritize assistance for Thai citizens in border areas with the same urgency as the poker event’s approval.