Tunisia's prime minister promises reform of country's harsh marijuana law

Published January 08, 2015

Tunisia's prime minister has backed a reform of the country's harsh penalties for cannabis possession, calling it "out of sync" with current times.

In a press conference late Wednesday, Mehdi Jomaa promised to "amend the law to adapt it to the new reality" in society. The current law gives prison sentences of up to five years for possession of cannabis.

Jomaa was responding to a question over the situation of prominent blogger Aziz Hamami, arrested Monday for cannabis use.

Hamami's outspoken blog gained widespread attention during the 2011 revolution against Tunisia's former dictator. Activists accuse the police of using harsh drug laws to target those they disagree with. Supporters for Hamami demonstrated for his release on Tuesday.

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