Bangkok, March 2nd, 2025 — The Students’ and People’s Network for Thailand’s Reform (STR) and allied groups, led by Pichit Chaimongkol, gathered at Chamai Maru Chet Bridge in Bangkok to protest against the government’s push to legalize casinos and online gambling. The demonstrators vowed to remain until their demands were addressed.
Pichit stated that the group had repeatedly opposed gambling legalization. The recent draft of the Entertainment Complex Bill, which includes casino operations, has been completed by the Council of State and is set to be reviewed by the Cabinet this month.
Protesters argue the bill would have severe social consequences and must be stopped.
The protest also raised concerns about the alleged unequal treatment of former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who spent 180 days in a police hospital instead of serving his prison sentence.
Additionally, the group opposed a separate online gambling bill being pushed by the Interior and Digital Economy ministries, which is also expected to reach the Cabinet soon.
Authorities from Dusit Police Station have deployed 170 crowd control officers to maintain order, with rotations scheduled throughout the protest. The organizers confirmed that they had secured official permission for the gathering and aimed to minimize disruption, though they may extend onto the roadway if participation increases.
Pichit stated that the group will continue protesting, including pressuring political parties to reject the Entertainment Complex Bill in Parliament. Protesters plan to camp overnight at the bridge, with further demonstrations expected if the bill advances. The group did not seem interested in proposed “compromises” about allowing casinos and gambling but rather were entirely against them.
