Last updated on June 25th, 2024 at 10:12 am
- Driving The News: Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul comments on the Ministry of Public Health’s public opinion poll regarding the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic.
- Why It Matters: The poll’s outcome could influence the future legal status of cannabis in Thailand, affecting public access and regulatory frameworks.
- The Big Picture: Anutin highlights the importance of combining public opinion with expert input in making nuanced policy decisions.
Rewritten News Story
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, ANUTIN CHARNVIRAKUL, has addressed the recent initiative by SOMSAK THEPSUTHIN, Minister of Public Health, to conduct a 15-day public opinion poll from June 11th to 25th on whether cannabis should be reclassified as a narcotic. The Ministry of Public Health will use the feedback from this poll to guide its decision on the matter.
Anutin, who also leads the Bhumjaithai Party, stated that he respects the Ministry of Public Health’s process and will not interfere. He emphasized the importance of gathering public opinion in a democratic society, noting that this input is crucial. However, he also pointed out that complex scientific issues like cannabis regulation require careful consideration of expert input alongside public opinion.
He explained that while the decriminalization of cannabis allows regulated public access, reclassifying it as a narcotic would restrict this access significantly. This highlights the nuanced nature of the issue and the need for a balanced approach in policy-making.
Anutin has been a strong proponent of cannabis legalization, which was a key campaign promise of the Bhumjaithai Party in the previous administration. He concluded by saying that while public opinion is essential, complex policy decisions should ultimately be made by elected representatives who consider the nation’s best interests. He expressed confidence that the Minister of Public Health understands these principles and will make an informed decision.
