Politician Bhumjaithai Unfazed by Titular "Cannabis King" Label

In a dramatic turn of events, Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand's newly elected prime minister, faces criticism and controversy over his stance on cannabis decriminalization.

Anutin, who championed the decriminalization of cannabis in 2022 while serving as the public health minister, won the support of 311 MPs to become Thailand's 32nd prime minister on Friday. However, his past advocacy has sparked debates, with critics arguing that the decriminalization occurred without an accompanying law or clear regulation, leading to an unintended increase in recreational use.

Kharom Phonphonklang, the spokesperson for the Bhumjaithai party, defended the party's intentions, stating that the cannabis policy was intended to regulate traditional herbal use and prevent criminalization. Phonphonklang also expressed concern that the media, such as the Financial Times, labelling Anutin as "Thailand's cannabis king" could lead to misunderstandings about the soon-to-be prime minister.

The Financial Times headline, which sparked controversy, was met with criticism from various quarters. An acting deputy interior minister from the Pheu Thai Party, Theerarat Samrejvanich, found the label deeply alarming and expressed concern about its impact on Thailand's national economy, investment, and tourism.

In response, a party spokesperson for Bhumjaithai said the story in the Financial Times was not negative if one reads the full article. Nan Bunthida, the main spokesperson for Bhumjaithai, further emphasized that the party's cannabis policy has always been focused on medical use only.

However, Theerarat Samrejvanich accused Bhumjaithai of misleading the public by focusing solely on the headline without reading the full article. This led to a heated exchange between the two parties, with Nan Bunthida strongly denying the allegations.

Despite the controversies, Phonphonklang asked people not to worry and to allow Anutin Charnvirakul to carry out his duties to the fullest of his ability. He also asked for fair treatment and emphasized Anutin's pledge to address national challenges within a limited timeframe.

Various public concerns, including Khao Kradong and alleged senate collusion, are being addressed within the legal framework. The outgoing Pheu Thai government is attempting to re-regulate cannabis to prevent abuse, but it remains to be seen how the new government will address these issues moving forward.

As Thailand prepares for a new leadership, the cannabis issue promises to remain a contentious topic, with both supporters and critics closely watching Anutin Charnvirakul's actions and decisions.