Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s recent cabinet shake-up could potentially result in significant alterations to the cannabis bill. This move follows the appointment of former Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin to replace Cholnan Srikaew as the Public Health Minister.
Cholnan has played a pivotal role in the discussions surrounding cannabis legislation. Criticism was directed at him following the legalization of the plant in 2022 under the tenure of Anutin Charnvirakul, the former Health Minister, who now holds positions as the Interior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.
Since legalization, Thailand’s regulations on cannabis have been ambiguous, sparking a two-year-long debate between proponents and opponents. While some advocate for stricter regulation, others advocate for a return to criminal penalties for marijuana use.
An unregulated cannabis industry, valued at billions of Baht, has rapidly emerged across the nation, with numerous marijuana shops and dispensaries cropping up.
Somsak, the new Health Minister, was previously the Justice Minister when cannabis was decriminalized in 2022. He supported the move, citing the disproportionate incarceration of non-violent drug users. He has also recently expressed his backing for advancing the cannabis draft bill, which primarily focuses on medicinal purposes. However, the bill has faced opposition from groups advocating for substantial amendments.
Critics particularly highlight concerns regarding a proposed regulation mandating foreigners to possess a medical certificate for cannabis use, fearing potential exploitation by corrupt officials. They also argue that the bill fails to adequately differentiate between medical and recreational use.
Further complicating matters, Prime Minister Srettha suggested reconsidering the criminalization of cannabis, citing significant societal issues, especially among young people. However, he did not provide specific evidence to support his claims.
In response, Anutin defended marijuana usage for its medicinal benefits, opposing the proposed ban. Meanwhile, Cholnan, the former Health Minister, struggled to find a middle ground, acknowledging that public opinion does not favor a cannabis ban.
The debate has been further muddled by opposition from Prime Minister Srettha and his Pheu Thai Party, as well as the influence of Thaksin Shinawatra, a prominent figure within the party who opposes cannabis use.
As the new Health Minister, Somsak enters this complex scenario. While some speculate that the ongoing cannabis dispute prompted the cabinet reshuffle, Somsak’s stance remains uncertain. Nevertheless, he has advocated for improved regulation of cannabis, recognizing the industry’s potential.
The fate of the cannabis draft bill hangs in the balance. With parliamentary debate on the horizon in the coming months, both supporters and critics are closely monitoring developments. Amidst this, Anutin, a staunch advocate for decriminalization, is likely to oppose any efforts to re-criminalize cannabis, potentially causing friction within the government.
