Last updated on August 21st, 2024 at 06:58 am
โข Why It Matters: The hunger strike highlights the growing tensions between cannabis advocates and the Thai government.
โข Driving The News: AKARADEJ, a prominent cannabis network leader, was hospitalized after a five-day hunger strike protesting cannabis reclassification.
โข Zoom In: The protest aims to force the government to reconsider cannabis regulations and prevent monopolization by large interest groups.
BANGKOK, THAILAND โ AKARADEJ CHAKJINDA, a coordinator of the Thai Cannabis Network, was rushed to Rajavithi Hospital after a five-day hunger strike protesting the governmentโs stance on cannabis regulation. The hunger strike, initiated on July 10, was intended to pressure the government to compare the harms of cannabis against those of tobacco and alcohol. The network has been advocating for a fair evaluation of cannabis, arguing that reclassification as a narcotic would monopolize benefits for select groups and ignore cannabisโ potential health benefits.
The protest underscores the frustrations of cannabis advocates, who feel that the government is dismissing their concerns. AKARADEJ, along with PRASITCHAI NOONUAL, has been at the forefront of these efforts, urging the government to consider the broader implications of its policies on public health and industry.
Contributing Sources: Matichon