Cannabis Advocates Plan Extended Rally Over Legal Reclassification
Cannabis advocates have announced a prolonged rally against the Ministry of Public Health's proposal to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic. The group led by Prasitchai Nunual walked out of a meeting with Minister Somsak Thepsutin, seeking dedicated cannabis laws to avoid severe penalties. Their rally is set for July 8 near Government House.
Cannabis advocates have announced a prolonged rally next month against the Ministry of Public Health's proposal to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic.
Prasitchai Nunual, secretary-general of Writing Thai Cannabis’ Future Network, revealed the group's plan after representatives walked out of a meeting with Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin.
Advocates seek a dedicated cannabis law to avoid governing the plant under the Criminal Code, which carries severe penalties.
Cannabis was declassified from the narcotics list two years ago, leading to increased recreational use and thousands of related shops.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin supports reclassification by year-end.
Prasitchai warns of the negative impact on 10,000 patients relying on cannabis-based traditional medicine and the influence of big businesses due to capital-intensive cultivation.
The group's rally is scheduled for July 8 near Government House to push for equitable cannabis regulations.
Minister Somsak confirmed plans for regulations specifying narcotic parts of the plant and legal cultivation for medical and research use only, ruling out recreational consumption.