Since the decriminalization of marijuana in late 2019, there has been a 78 percent drop in the average number of drug related cases coming before the courts.  

This was revealed by Acting Attorney General Faris al Rawi, during Wednesday’s debate on a report from the Joint Select Committee which examined the Cannabis Control Legislation.

Providing a further breakdown in the House of Representatives, Mr. Al Rawi said the Judiciary has reported in a February 2022, that cases moved  from  551 to 114 on a monthly basis, or 6,000 to 1,400 annually.

“It shows that with the courage to adopt reform on the decriminalization of marijuana, we have been able to divert the courts’ attention from mar related matters… Therefore less people are before the court in the jeopardy of losing their lives and reputations,” Al Rawi said.

Meanwhile, as it relates to the Cannabis Licensing Authority, which will dictate who is permitted to sell cannabis, Mr. Al Rawi said applicants will be subject to a rigorous inspection regime.

“This is to ensure protection for our children and the vulnerable in society. You have to, as a term and conditions of licenses, be registered. You cannot have a license for a dwelling home- it must be in a commercial aspect. You must strictly consent to the entry of any inspectors on any premises specified in the license,” he said.