Ras Simba Appeals High Court Decision on Sacramental Cannabis

On September 3, 2026, Rastafarian advocate Paul 'Ras Simba' Rock announced his intention to appeal a recent High Court ruling that dismissed his constitutional challenge to Barbados' cannabis laws. The challenge was centered on the Sacramental Cannabis Act (SCA) and the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act, which Ras Simba argued infringed upon his religious freedoms by restricting sacramental cannabis use to registered places of worship.

Justice Michelle Weekes of the No. 8 Supreme Court ruled that the existing legislation is constitutional and justified on grounds of public health, safety, and order. The court determined that limiting legal sacramental cannabis use to registered tabernacles does not violate constitutional rights to religious freedom, privacy, or protection from discrimination.

Ras Simba, represented by attorney Lalu Hanuman, contended that the law's restrictions impede personal liberty and freedom of worship, particularly for Rastafarian women who may be unable to attend tabernacles and must worship at home. Expressing disappointment with the ruling, Ras Simba described the legal grounds as 'very flimsy' and confirmed plans to take the case to the Court of Appeal.

This case highlights ongoing tensions between religious practices and national drug policies, raising important questions about the balance between individual rights and public health considerations.

For more details, see the full article on Barbados Today: Ras Simba to appeal High Court ruling on sacramental cannabis.