Narcotics bill does not encourage using drugs or engaging in illicit drug commerce – Alban Bagbin

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has provided clarification regarding the recent passage of the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill 2023. The bill grants the Minister for the Interior the authority to issue licenses for the cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes, but it does not legalize the smoking of cannabis or its unlawful trade.

The Speaker pointed out that there has been a misunderstanding of the bill following its passage. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, July 27, he urged all Members of Parliament and the entire Ghanaian populace to understand and communicate that the bill does not allow for the smoking of cannabis or the illicit trade of the substance. His aim was to dispel any misinterpretations and misinformation surrounding the matter and foster a more informed dialogue.

He restated that under Ghanaian law, the cultivation, manufacture, processing, production, sale, distribution, or use of narcotic plants, including cannabis, without lawful authority remains an offense punishable by law.

The bill was passed on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. Prior to its passage, Speaker Bagbin had highlighted that Ghana was missing out on significant economic opportunities by not having a proper licensing system for cannabis cultivation. He made this observation after the Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, presented and read the Narcotics Regulation Commission Amendment Bill, 2023, on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, July 6.

Previously, the Supreme Court had nullified a law related to granting licenses for cannabis cultivation, commonly known as ‘wee,’ citing the lack of parliamentary debate as required by Article 106 (5) (6) of the 1992 Constitution.

However, Speaker Bagbin expressed his displeasure with the ruling during a meeting with the justices of the Supreme Court. He urged them to consult Parliament before making such decisions and emphasized that the aim of the new bill was not to challenge the court’s decision but to rectify the error and reinstate the appropriate provisions.

The Speaker announced that the bill would be referred to the Committee on Defence and Interior for further consideration and reporting to the House. He expected the committee to submit its report within one week, highlighting the urgency of the matter.

In conclusion, the Speaker’s clarification aims to prevent any misconceptions about the recent cannabis cultivation bill in Ghana. The bill allows for legal licenses for industrial cannabis cultivation but strictly prohibits smoking cannabis and any unlawful trade of the substance. The focus now is on fostering a well-informed discussion and collaboration between the different arms of government to achieve the right balance and benefits for the nation.