KOROR (Palau Horizon) — Several groups and individuals are opposed to legislation allowing the operations of slot machines, pachinko games and casino in Angaur.
President Tommy Remengesau said comments and phone calls his office had been receiving regarding the controversial bill were not in favor of it.
“Nine out of 10 are against (the gambling bill),” Remengesau said.
The president will soon make a decision on the measure.
Remengesau earlier indicated that he would veto it.
He said it is his administration’s policy that sustainable development should not disturb the quality of life.
“We (should instead) emphasize the quality development of our culture and our environment,” Remengesau said.
Palau is not in a desperate situation requiring it to consider gambling as a revenue generating measure, he added.
There are other “quality” legislation that should have been approved by the Olbiil Era Kelulau, he said.
“Palau is a serene, peaceful and low-crime society. With the introduction of gambling, comes possible inclusion of criminal conduct that would easily destroy reputation of the country,” Remengesau said.
He added that gambling and casino have a long history of ties with criminal elements.
