I HAVE been an ardent follower of the current and previous debate on the proposed legalisation of marijuana (chamba, dagga) by various stakeholders.
The view held by the Green Party is that marijuana could be used for medicinal purposes.
However, I hold a different view, any attempts to formally legalise an outlawed drug that has potential to cause mental sickness to those innocent souls that may abuse the drug should never be allowed.
We should not forget that the intended markets for this trade is equally susceptible to negative use and may subject many people to wrong uses.
I am certain that the World Health Organisation would have legalised use of this drug if it indeed has medicinal properties as alleged by those supporting this position.
Perhaps readers may wish to know that consumption of marijuana in one day has potential to remain in the system for a 30 day period. Is this a drug one would be comfortable exporting?
The Green Party has further gone to the extent of suggesting that the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) be abolished and annexed to the Police. I beg to differ.
DEC was not created primarily for purposes of dealing with abusers of drugs. This Unit has more responsibilities such as anti-money laundering which has a potential of ruining the cash flow perception of a country.
DEC also has an educational unit designed to encourage and educate the masses on the dangers of consuming illegal drugs and substances etc.
DEC also has a unit that helps abusers of all forms of drugs and substances in order to assist them in their rehabilitation.
I firmly believe that this Unit is an essential one to exist as a stand alone entity.
On the aspect of whether or not to legalise marijuana, am of the view that this drug should remain outlawed whether internally or externally and whether for medicinal or other uses.
Victor Chimuka
NDOLA

Chipolopolo disappoint

I AM disappointed that the Chipolopolo lost the game against Tunisia at the ongoing AFCON despite creating a myriad of chances.
However, I strongly feel that there was no unit of purpose in the team looking at the players who wanted self praise.
Look at the chance where skipper Rainford Kalaba opted to go for a goal when Emmanuel Mayuka was better positioned to score if Rainford had released the ball.
The blame game on the players was also so visible on the screens.
I hope the dropped senior players have no influence on the seemingly division or camps in the team.
Chipoli Ng’ambi
LUSAKA

A LEAF FROM MALALA

FROM the archives of natural tradition,
Elderly voices form the foundation.
With a stick in hand will lead the way.
Will keep the youths at bay.
On the tongue of ancestral creation,
A cold mould of cultural tradition.
With time forward, a ray of the universe,
Bids farewell to the traditional verse.
When a clear voice in sobriety,
Through the heat of the day, the cold of the night,
At seventeen years of age,
Broke the cage.
“Global girl education,
The only solution.”
Who shall hold it and hold it right.
Why hesitate to be part of the fight?
The growing forest of today,
Why wait for another day?
It’s only one child, one teacher,
One book, one pen,
The bee in labour for sweet honey,
That can blend a literate journey.