Thaksin Shinawatra Parole Nears as Thailand Advances Casino-Free Tourism Plans

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be eligible for parole on May 10, 2026, following a Supreme Court ruling. Currently serving a one-year sentence at Klong Prem Central Prison, Thaksin's potential release has garnered significant attention.

Meanwhile, the Thai government is advancing a major tourism initiative in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) that explicitly excludes casinos. This ambitious project aims to attract up to THB700 billion ($22.56 billion) in investment, signaling a shift in the country's tourism strategy amid ongoing debates over gambling legalization.

Thaksin Shinawatra's Legal Case and Political Influence

Thaksin's imprisonment stems from past convictions related to abuse of power and corruption. Though he received a royal pardon upon returning to Thailand in 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that time spent in a police hospital did not count toward his sentence. His eligibility for parole comes after serving two-thirds of his term, raising questions about his future involvement in Thai politics.

Thaksin has remained a vocal advocate for legalizing casinos, proposing an "Entertainment Complex" model during his daughter Paetongtarn's tenure. However, this initiative faced considerable public opposition and was ultimately shelved following her removal from office in August 2025.

The current Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has firmly stated that gambling legalization will not proceed under his administration.

Eastern Economic Corridor Tourism Megaproject

In a parallel development, the Thai government is pushing forward with a large-scale, casino-free tourism complex in the EEC. Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn confirmed that the project aims to boost economic growth and tourism without including any casino elements.

The EEC board is set to review the initiative this week before it goes to the Cabinet for approval. Phiphat emphasized that the government is targeting a GDP growth of around 3% in 2026, with infrastructure and tourism as key focus areas. The proposed entertainment complex is designed to attract up to 40 million visitors annually and will feature sports facilities, a major theme park, and extensive retail areas.

Investment Plans and Economic Growth Outlook

The EEC initiative is poised to stimulate significant investment, particularly in infrastructure projects like the high-speed rail link connecting three airports and developments around U-Tapao Airport.

Phiphat estimates that total investments could reach between THB600 billion and THB700 billion (US$19.35 billion to US$22.56 billion). This includes approximately THB300 billion ($9.67 billion) for the rail project and THB350 billion ($11.28 billion) for sports-related investments.