Bill seeks to ban consumption of lethal liquors

KIGALI - ‘Consuming any substance that that has alcoholic content above 45% is considered illegal. Such substances can, however, be used for medical purposes only.’ The statement is part of a bill, currently in parliament, that aims at legalising the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for medical and scientific purposes. Article 26 of the bill reads that, ‘any substance that exceeds 45% degree of alcohol will be considered as drugs.’ Addressing the Parliamentary standing Committee on Education, Technology, Culture and Youth, Alexis Ruzindaza, from the Ministry of Health, said that his ministry will come up with a list of alcoholic substances with over 45% volume. “The bill stipulates that the Minister of Health determines a list of consumables considered as drugs under this law,” said Ruzindaza, who is also in charge of pharmaceutical information in the ministry. He, however, added that Rwanda will not legalise marijuana as previously reported; instead, there is a particular substance to be extracted from marijuana for medical purposes. Following yesterday’s deliberations on the bill, the 29 article draft law will now be sent to the plenary assembly for final amendment before it is sent to the Senate. According to the bill, its objective is to contribute to the protection of the population while ensuring that drugs and psychotropic substances are exclusively available for scientific and medical purposes. The bill responds to the demands of the United Nations conventions in the fight against illegal drug use and requests every country to put in place her own laws accordingly. It also intends to ensure the enforcement of international conventions in matters of control of narcotics and psychotropic substances. Medically, usage of such substances help in relieving the pain and problems related to psychic troubles. The bill also seeks to comply with the demands of the Ministry of Health that require that such products be used only in health institutions as pain relievers, especially in treating behavioural problems. Ends

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Bill seeks to ban consumption of lethal liquors