Bangkok: Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, a leading figure in the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed his concerns over the latest announcement by Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin of the Ministry of Public Health regarding controlled herbs, specifically cannabis, in 2025. Supachai questioned the originality of the announcement, suggesting that it closely mirrors the cannabis policy unveiled by the Bhumjaithai Party in 2022.
According to Thai News Agency, Supachai highlighted on his personal Facebook page that the recent announcement resembles the 2022 Ministry of Public Health's controlled herbs policy, which was signed by Anutin Charnvirakul. Supachai emphasized that both announcements are approximately 90% similar, with only minor adjustments. He argued that the Pheu Thai Party's claim of introducing stricter control over cannabis is misleading, as similar regulations were already in place under the Bhumjaithai Party's policy.
Supachai defended the Bhumjaithai Party's medical cannabis policy, stating it was designed to provide medical benefits without allowing recreational use. He noted that both announcements prohibit the sale of cannabis through vending machines, advertising, and in places of worship, dormitories, public parks, amusement parks, and schools. He accused Pheu Thai of replicating Anutin's policy and urged them to address illegal shops rather than claim superiority over previous efforts.
Supachai further criticized the Pheu Thai Party for failing to address cannabis-related issues during the past two years, despite having the authority to do so. He called for accountability, questioning why the Pheu Thai Party did not take action sooner if they identified problems with the Bhumjaithai Party's policy. Supachai insisted that the Pheu Thai Party owes an explanation to society for their inaction.