At a glance, the laos lotto is a simple game of chance. But it’s more than that — it’s a vivid snapshot of a nation’s cultural cornerstone, a nod towards fairness and equality. It’s a government operation devoid of any ties to underground gambling activities and, above all, it brings people together.
The numbers that appear in the national lottery aren’t always as random as they seem, however. Drawings are often rigged to prevent large pay-outs, according to RFA’s Lao service. For example, the winning number on Oct. 14 this year was 134, but later changed to 662, a source told RFA. This number is associated in Laos with the buffalo, which is considered a symbol of good luck.
Nevertheless, the lottery remains a popular pastime in the country and has helped raise funds to build or rebuild about 15 churches in the capital, Vientiane. In the 18th century, it became one of the main sources of income for religious congregations and a source of conflict between the monarchy and church for control over the system.
But there are concerns that private business interests are now taking over the lottery. The company responsible for the national lottery includes companies owned by persons with connections to the country’s ruling elite, a source tells RFA. Consequently, there are worries that the lottery could lose its credibility. The government should take back control, the source said. RFA’s Ounkeo Souksavanh and Richard Finney contributed to this report. Please support our work by making a donation today.
