A group of Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) members from the Pheu Thai Party denied allegations of gambling after a photograph of them playing cards was circulated on social media. One of the BMC members claimed they were reading cards for fortune telling, not gambling.
The Facebook page ชมรมSTRONGต้านทุจริต ประเทศไทย (translated as “Strong Anti-Corruption Club Thailand”) shared an image on Tuesday, December 18, showing nine individuals gathered around a table appearing to play a card game. The page alleged that some of the individuals in the photograph were BMC members.
In the comments section, the page shared a zoomed-in image that appeared to show cards and money on the table, raising suspicions of gambling.
Netizens questioned whether these BMC members would face punishment, as gambling is illegal in Thailand. Such actions could also constitute a breach of ethical standards expected of politicians.
Channel 3 subsequently confirmed the identities of those in the photograph, which included Deputy President of the BMC Viput Srivaurai, Wang Thong Lang district representative Anurak Lertwattanapaibun, Bang Khun Thian district representative Pawin Pattayanon, and Bang Kapi district representative Napatsorn Palaraweewong.
All of the individuals in the photograph were identified as members of the Pheu Thai Party, prompting journalists to question the Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on the matter. However, the prime minister declined to comment.
Anurak Lertwattanapaibun later gave an interview with Channel 3, explaining that the photograph was taken on December 17 during a dinner gathering at a friend’s home in Soi Sukhumvit 12.
Anurak insisted that no gambling took place and denied playing any card games. He claimed he was reading cards for others, as he has skills in fortune telling.
Anurak further explained that the money visible on the table was a contribution towards the cost of the meal, amounting to 600 baht per person.
Anurak also stated that the cards shown in the photograph could be used similarly to tarot cards, with the scores on the cards being used to predict individuals’ futures.
The President of the BMC, Surajit Pongsinghawittaya, told the media that he was aware of the matter and would summon the involved members for questioning in accordance with official procedures. The results of the investigation are expected to be released next week.
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