This year’s summer holidays are set to start on a high note. This follows the recent ruling by the Constitutional Court, where cannabis was made legal for personal use.
South Africans were elated when Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo made the announcement. It will no longer be a criminal offence for an adult to be in possession or use cannabis in a private space.
However, there is still a two-year period for Parliament to weed out the minor issues. This includes how much you as a cannabis user can grow, use or purchase.
Recently, an official police document did its rounds. It claims police commanders are to inform operational members to stop arresting people in possession of dagga with immediate effect. Except in cases of dealing or being in possession of dagga exceeding three kilograms.
Newcastle SAPS spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Ncube says this is not the case for Newcastillians or other KZN residents.
“We are still waiting for the directive on what steps we as the police need to take in terms of the dagga laws. The document reflects it is for the Limpopo area, an entirely different province. As soon as we receive the necessary directive, we will take the relevant steps.”
While this might leave people somewhat hazy about the legalities of marijuana use at home, Captain Ncube assures one can smoke up a storm in the privacy of their home. “However, you are not allowed to smoke dagga in the presence of a minor.”
If one grows cannabis at home, can you get into trouble? Captain Ncube says while it must still be determined just how much you are allowed to grow, you can have cannabis plants at home.
“Dealing in dagga is still illegal. But the police must be able to prove you are dealing when it comes to your plants.”
Walking down the street with over a kilogram of dagga can still get you into trouble. However, Captain Ncube says being in possession of one joint or dagga in a matchbox will not see you in hot water. “Police will be using their discretion when it comes to dagga possession while Parliament resolves the matter.”
Will the new law change the way police focus on crime?
“Everything will stay the same. We will still arrest people for being in possession of drugs such as cocaine and mandrax. The only thing now, is we will not be focusing on so many people for dagga use,” he concludes.
As this topic unfolds, the amount of positivity it will generate SA is unimaginable at this stage. From freeing up courtrooms to a huge boost in tourism and of course major cash injections, the future is looking bright for SA!
Democratic Alliance MPL, KZN Legislature and spokesperson on Health and Quality of Life, Imran Keeka recently participated in a debate at the KZN Legislature on why cannabis should be allowed to be used.
What are your thoughts on the topic?
Also read: Get educated on Cannabis, the world’s safest medicine
