Parliament of Uganda to Pass New Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Bill

KAMPALA - August 22, 2023

The Parliament of Uganda is set to pass the *Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Bill, 2023* later today. The proceedings will be presided over by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa.

The introduction of this new Bill comes in response to the Constitutional Court's annulment of a previously worded Act in the case of *Wakiso Miraa Growers and Dealers Association versus Attorney General*. The previous Act was nullified due to a lack of quorum during its enactment. The government reintroduced the Bill on May 23rd, 2023, just two weeks after the Constitutional Court's decision, in order to address the quorum issue.

The main provisions of the Bill seek to criminalize various aspects related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. It encompasses measures to address drug-related offenses domestically, in accordance with Article 3 of the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, as well as other international conventions.

The Bill also aims to rectify issues within the existing National Drug Policy and Authority Act, Cap 206, which has been deemed inadequate in addressing cases of illicit drugs. The objectives of the Bill include combating drug trafficking and abuse, implementing deterrent measures against local drug abuse, establishing mechanisms for rehabilitating drug addicts, and preventing Uganda from becoming a transit route and consumer of drugs.

The proposed penalties within the Bill are stringent. For those convicted of possessing narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances, a fine of 500 currency points (Shs10 million) or three times the market value of the drugs will be imposed, whichever is higher. Alternatively, imprisonment ranging from 2 to 10 years is also possible.

The Bill also addresses various forms of drug use. Smoking, inhaling, sniffing, chewing, or any other use of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances would incur a penalty of not less than Shs480,000 and not exceeding Shs2.4 million, or a custodial sentence ranging from 1 to 5 years. Possession would result in a fine of Shs3 million or imprisonment ranging from 3 to 5 years upon conviction.

The penalties extend to those involved in facilitating drug abuse. Individuals who own, occupy, or manage premises for abuse or manufacturing, possess utensils used for illicit use, or recruit others for drug-related activities would face the same penalties.

Recognizing the growing concern of drug abuse among minors, the government is determined to address this issue through stricter penalties. Supplying toxic chemical inhalants to young individuals could result in a penalty of not less than Shs2.4 million or imprisonment not exceeding 5 years. Additionally, cultivating prohibited plants would attract a fine of Shs2.4 million or 5 years imprisonment. Repeat offenders could face a life sentence.

This Bill represents a comprehensive effort by the Ugandan government to tackle the pervasive problem of drug trafficking and abuse within the country. With the implementation of these new measures, authorities hope to curtail the illegal drug trade and safeguard the well-being of Ugandan citizens.