Egypt MP pushes for cannabis decriminalisation, faces backlash

The proposal has come up against harsh opposition from other legislators
Al Araby (UK)
Tuesday, October 16, 2018

An Egyptian MP has proposed a draft law that would see users of drugs such as cannabis and tramadol receive therapeutic treatment rather than face prison sentences, a surprisingly liberal push in the socially conservative and authoritarian country. Deputy governor of Cairo John Talaat announced the proposal this week, receiving mixed reaction from fellow lawmakers, officials and experts. Salah Fawzi, a lawyer and constitutional specialist said the proposition raised some interesting issues that should be looked into further, adding that such a change in legislation around drugs would not violate any part of the Egyptian constitution. (See also: Egypt MP proposes law to decriminalise all drug use)