High hopes as ban on cannabis-infused food lifted
A civil society group has described the
government's decision to withdraw a ban on cannabis-infused food as a major
victory.
The Presidency confirmed on Wednesday that Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi had raised concerns about unregulated imports of hemp and edibles entering the market.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, however, recommended broader public consultation on regulations before implementing any restrictions.
The minister agreed to withdraw the prohibition for further discussion.
Free SA spokesperson Reuben Coetzer said they wrote to Motsoaledi last week.
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"In that letter, we challenged the legality of the regulations and warned that failure to comply with the legal obligation to consult the public would result in court action," said Coetzer.
"This is a huge win for civil society and the principle of participatory democracy. We made it clear that the government cannot pass sweeping, punitive regulations without consulting the public.
"On the eve of being taken to court, the minister has rightly withdrawn the unlawful regulations."
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