MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The much talked-about amended Drug Law of 2014 has finally been passed into law, after it was signed by President George Weah.
The amended Drug Act has been lingering in the corridors of the National Legislature for months before its passage by both houses.
A national debate ensued among stake actors and non-state actors over the prolonged delays in the passage of the bill.
The 2014 Drug Law is bailable for offenders as hundreds of young people nationwide become drug addicts.
But, the new law aims to regulate, restrict, control, limit, or eradicate the illegal export and importation, as we as the flagrant use, abuse, and proliferation of narcotic substances within the bailiwick of Liberia.
Meanwhile, the new Drug Law has set aside punishment for certain categories of offenders.
Exporters, manufacturers, and importers, among others, shall be guilty of a felony of the first degree and non-bailable and punishable to prison for a minimum of ten years, and not exceeding twenty years.
Consumers, according to the new Drug Law, shall be guilty of a second-degree felony, punishable to prison for not less than five years and not exceeding ten years pursuant to the Penal Law of Liberia.
The law also provides that a person commits an offense if they purposely or knowingly import into the country any controlled drugs or substances without a license from the relevant authority.
It is clearly noted that it shall be a grave offense and shall not be bailable.
By: Sampson David
