By Doreen Mokgolo
Anti-drug group World Changers Candidates is pushing for harsher action against drug dealers.
The NGO, based in Leondale, Gauteng, has started a petition asking the government to sentence drug dealers to life in prison.
The group believes that if drug dealers face harsher punishment, it will send a strong public message and help reduce drug problems.
Last week, they took their petition to President Cyril Ramaphosa at his presidential imbizo in Tsakani Stadium, Ekurhuleni.
Led by young people, the organisation goes to schools and public places to educate people about the dangers of drugs.
Motshidise Maputswe, a World Changers Candidates representative, told Scrolla.Africa the group has been fighting drug abuse for 24 years.
She said it’s now easier than ever to get drugs, and it’s affecting people of all ages, even children as young as 12.
“The drug problem is bad. Drugs are even being brought into schools,” said Maputswe.
“Once drug dealers are arrested, they shouldn’t get bail or parole and should be sentenced to life in prison. If there’s no supply, the demand for drugs will go down, making it easier to help addicts recover.”
She believes that removing drug dealers from communities is key to solving the problem.
Maputswe also hopes that the government of national unity, now led by multiple political parties, will finally realise their plea for tougher laws.
“We need the government to work with us to fight substance abuse and get drugs off our streets,” she said.
Pictured above: Motshidise Maputswe’s anti-drugs sign.
Source: Doreen Mokgolo
