It was only a few weeks ago that James Packer seemed confident about the approval of his plans to build a casino in Colombo – but things have gone South fast. In September, he was given the green light to begin planning the construction of the new casino resort that would be built in the Sri Lankan capital. Now, he is being threatened with legal action by Buddhist leaders and political opposition.
Packer plans to spend $400 million to build an integrated casino resort in Colombo, which would attract gamblers from across Asia. In addition to creating jobs for local residents, the property would help to boost tourism in the country. However, not everybody in Sri Lankan sees the project from this perspective. In fact, the United National Party outright opposes the plan.
According to Reuters, UNP lawmaker Harsha De Dilva stated that the casino would ‘pollute’ Sri Lanka’s customs and traditions. Mr De Silva believes that it would be best for the country if the casino were located offshore. He noted that local authorities recently arrested 43 people in connect with an illegal gambling venue in Colombo, and has filed a complaint against Packer’s potential gambling venue.
"If the police can apply the law on small time casinos, then the police must also apply the same law on the big time casino," he said. However, it is unlikely that that the police will take any action against Packer, who is in Colombo for a Commonwealth meeting. Despite the opposition to the new casino and a delay of its legislation, the tycoon will continue to campaign for the project’s approval.
Packer is confident that the country will benefit from the opening of an integrated casino resort, as it will boost Sri Lanka’s economy by drawing in wealthy tourists from around the world.
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