Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul made quite the statement when he stepped out to cast his vote in the general election on May 14, 2023. Donning a shirt adorned with a cannabis pattern, he showcased his unwavering support for his party’s controversial cannabis policy. This striking appearance took place in Muang district of Buri Ram, further emphasizing his commitment. (Photo: Surachai Piraksa)
On Tuesday, Anutin, who is also the Interior Minister, reiterated his strong stance on the cannabis issue, particularly concerning its potential return to the narcotics list. He firmly declared his intention to oppose any such move when it comes up before the Narcotics Control Board (NCB). Notably, he emphasized that while he would vote “No,” he would not compel the interior permanent secretary to follow suit, allowing for a free vote instead.
Both Anutin and the permanent secretary for interior sit on the NCB board as ex-officio representatives of the Interior Ministry, a 36-member body chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The bold move to decriminalize cannabis was one of Bhumjaithai Party’s flagship policies in the 2019 general election, spearheaded by Anutin during his tenure as public health minister.
However, political tides shifted when the current coalition government was formed, leading to Anutin’s appointment as interior minister while the health portfolio went to Somsak Thepsutin of the Pheu Thai Party, who is a proponent of reversing the cannabis policy.
“If there’s a cabinet reshuffle and Bhumjaithai Party gains the chance to oversee the Public Health Ministry again, I would ensure cannabis is removed from the narcotics list once more because it’s the party’s flagship policy,” Anutin confidently shared with reporters at Government House. He further cautioned that re-criminalizing cannabis would undermine investor confidence, making them wary of the country’s ever-shifting policies. “Investors need [policy] stability,” he asserted.
The push to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic has its supporters and detractors. Proponents of the move believe it is necessary, while opposition groups argue that cannabis has significant health benefits and is safer than legal substances like alcohol and tobacco.
Adding to the complexity, a health committee responsible for regulating illegal drugs voted predominantly in favor of reclassifying cannabis and hemp as narcotics. According to Surachoke Tangwiwat, deputy permanent secretary for public health, this reclassification is set to take effect on January 1. The committee plans to submit its findings to the NCB within the week.
“If the Office of the Narcotics Control Board concurs with our conclusion, the next step will be for the Food and Drug Administration to amend all cannabis-related laws and establish criteria for the plant’s usage,” explained Dr. Surachoke. He indicated that all relevant laws should be modified before the January 1 deadline to align with the new classification.
I think Anutin has a point. Cannabis has medical benefits that should not be ignored.
Medical benefits? It’s just another way to get high legally.
That’s a gross oversimplification. Cannabis has been proven to help with chronic pain, PTSD, and even epilepsy.
Government flip-flopping on policies makes it hard for businesses to invest. We need stability.
Exactly, and cannabis can be a huge economic boost if regulated well.
Stability is one thing, but what about public health?
Returning cannabis to the narcotics list is a step backward. It’s about time we move forward and embrace progressive policies.
How is it progressive to make drugs more accessible? Think about the children.
Responsible regulation can prevent misuse. Banning it outright doesn’t help anyone.
Investors will certainly flee if policies keep changing. Anutin is right about that.
Investors will flee if the policy is unstable, regardless of what drug we’re talking about. What’s next, re-criminalizing alcohol?
This is Thailand, not Amsterdam. We need to consider our culture and social norms.
JazzManiac, cultures evolve. Cannabis has been a part of traditional Thai medicine for ages.
The health benefits of cannabis are undeniable, but we need strict regulations to prevent misuse.
Strict regulations? Who will enforce them? This will just create more black market activity.
If done correctly, enforcement can be managed. Look at other countries where it’s working.
I don’t see what the big deal is. Alcohol and tobacco are legal, and they’re way worse for you.
Anutin should focus on real issues, not just keep pushing his party’s agenda.
Cannabis legalization is a real issue. It impacts public health, economy, and personal freedoms.
Can’t believe we’re even debating this in 2023. Cannabis should be decriminalized globally.
Global decriminalization might be a stretch. Each country has different needs and contexts.
Legalizing cannabis can revolutionize the agricultural sector in Thailand!
Why focus on cannabis when other drugs like meth are rampant? Prioritize better, government!
Cannabis edibles could be a game-changer for the culinary scene.
Think about the kids. We need to reclassify cannabis to protect the youth!
Isn’t it better to regulate it properly so it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands?
Anutin should stand firm. Backtracking now would be disastrous for the movement.
Honestly, I’m torn. I see both the benefits and the potential risks.
It’s natural to be conflicted. The key is to have an informed, balanced approach.
I agree, but finding that balance is the challenge.
Anutin is doing what’s best for Thailand. We need more leaders like him.
Let science lead the way. Cannabis has proven medical benefits and should be treated as such.
Science is important, but so is common sense. We can’t rush into this.
No more reprimanding cannabis! It’s a plant, not a poison.
It’s so frustrating that we’re still fighting this battle. Legalize it already.
Exactly. Times are changing, and the law should too.
Cannabis is a gateway drug. We’ve seen it time and time again.
The ‘gateway drug’ theory has been debunked by many recent studies.
Studies can say anything. I’ve seen the damage firsthand.