Pubdate: Fri, 10 Jun 2016
Source: Cape Times (South Africa)
Copyright: 2016 Cape Times
Contact:  http://www.capetimes.co.za/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2938
Author: Stephen Pain

STRANGE REALITY

WHEN Dr Richard Oxtoby says that there are "no rational grounds" for 
making cannabis ("dagga") illegal, he hits the nail squarely on the head.

I am charged with the crime of cultivation and possession of 
cannabis, so I recently approached the National Prosecuting Authority 
to discuss the possibility of a plea bargain based on restorative justice.

Could I perhaps meet with, apologise to and somehow compensate the 
victims of my crime in return for a reduced sentence? Of course not, 
there are no victims; so as a simple stoner, I am denied an 
opportunity available to robbers and rapists. No rational grounds indeed.

Stephen Pain

Friends of the Earth, Riversdale
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom