Supporters of cannabis in Thailand have gone on hunger strike to urge the government not to reclassify the drug as illegal

Despite the "hunger pangs" usually triggered by smoking marijuana, two Thai activists vowed Tuesday to continue their hunger strike until the government reconsiders its plan to reclassify marijuana as a contraband.

The Thai government announced the legalization of marijuana in 2022, but the government changed its mind earlier this year and a new ban is on the way.

Akradej Chakjinda, 45, and Prasitchai Nunuan, 48, who have been on hunger strike for six days, have camped outside the prime minister's residence, urging the government to reconsider the plan. They vowed to survive only on water or coconut water until "our bodies can't take it anymore."

"Why does the government allow alcohol and cigarettes to exist in society, but not marijuana?" asked Brasichai. Allard, for his part, argues that the government is not taking the science into account when it comes to policy on marijuana use.

Thailand used to have very strict anti-marijuana laws, and people found in possession of marijuana could face up to 10 years in prison.

However, after liberalising cannabis in 2022, the government changed its mind earlier this year. Taking advantage of legal ambiguities, marijuana "dispensaries" have sprung up across Thailand, raising fears of a drug crisis.

Pro-marijuana activists have held protests across the country against the impending ban, but their campaigns have so far drawn only lukewarm attention, with many events attended by only a few dozen demonstrators.