The introduction of this Bill was in response to the alarming rate of illicit drugs abuse in Tonga. Of particular concern to the Lord Speaker were reports of involvement of children and youth in the commission of illicit drugs offences. It was also to recognize that the stricter penalties are to be used as a deterrent against the rise of drugs related crimes in Tonga.
The Bill was vigorously debated in the Legislative Assembly on 26 August 2021, where a majority of the Members expressed that they did not support the inclusion of the death penalty for various religious and ethical reasonings. Consequently, the Lord Speaker agreed to withdraw the provisions relating to the death penalty and also to accept the motions from Members to revise certain maximum penalties.
The Bill, with amendments was passed with a total vote of 19-0 on 26 August 2021. It is part and parcel of 3 new bills the Lord Speaker introduced in contribution to the national efforts to curb and control illicit drugs and intoxicating substances abuse in Tonga.