Uruguay’s charismatic president and former guerilla, José Mujica made good on his word by signing into law the Uruguay government’s plan to create a regulated, legal market for marijuana. This was the final step of formalities required to implement the law.
Bureaucrats in Uruguay have until April 9 to create the rules and regulations for controlling all aspects of the new marijuana market, the first in the world. Rules would control every aspect from the growing to selling of marijuana through a network of approved pharmacies. Currently, domestic cultivation of marijuana is legal in Uruguay and restricted to up to six plants per family and an annual harvest of 480 gm.
Uruguay, shunned by nations as one of the poorest countries and Mujica as one of the poorest presidents, set an example for all to preach about, however few follow. Under Mujica’s governance the country provides free computers and education for every child, and regulates the prices for essential commodities, like milk. Things like this can happen, because as a president, Mujica lives an exemplary and austere life. No palace, no motorcade, no frills, and no luxury items and fancy parties. Other world leaders’ jeer at his lifestyle – he lives in a farmhouse, donates the major part of his salary to social projects, drives an old Volkswagen Beetle, and flies economy class.
A man who spent close to 14 years in military prison, led a band of guerillas who robbed banks and the rich, and distributed food and money to the poor, this has made Uruguay one of the most liberal countries in the world after taking over its helm in 2010. Since he came to power within the last three years, Mujica has already legalized same-sex marriage and abortion and has made Uruguay the first country in the world to legalize marijuana trade.