Bangkok: Supachai Jaismut, chairman of the legal working group of the Bhumjaithai Party, has voiced his concerns over Pheu Thai Party's approach to cannabis policy, urging them to be transparent with the public about their stance on the matter. Supachai emphasizes the importance of empowering local communities to cultivate and utilize cannabis for medicinal purposes, rather than catering to large-scale capitalists.
According to Thai News Agency, Supachai took to his personal Facebook page following a statement by Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health, regarding the potential reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic. He highlighted that both Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai parties had previously agreed that cannabis should not be treated as a narcotic but as a controlled herb, aligning with Bhumjaithai's focus on medical and health cannabis.
Supachai called for Pheu Thai to cease misleading the public about plans to revert cannabis to a narcotic status. Instead, he urged them to align with Bhumjaithai's initiative, supporting medical and health cannabis. He stressed the necessity of upholding the law and prosecuting those who violate it to mitigate social repercussions.
He pointed out the differing approaches of the two parties, noting that Bhumjaithai promotes self-reliance by allowing individuals to grow and use cannabis for medical purposes. In contrast, Pheu Thai's strategy limits public cultivation, requiring purchases from large-scale producers, which Supachai argues conflicts with traditional practices and community lifestyles.
Supachai also dismissed claims that 18,000 shops have been adversely affected, arguing that most of these establishments focus on recreational use rather than medical and health cannabis. He warned that the Ministry of Public Health would not renew licenses for shops found violating the controlled herb sales regulations.
The ongoing debate over cannabis policy highlights the potential for political influence and the need for clarity in public discourse, as society awaits definitive answers on the issue.