Oriani-Ambrosini's plea for medical marijuana

Mario Oriani-Ambrosini received a standing ovation in Parliament after his plea for medical marijuana. Image: YouTube

Responding to a debate on his State of the Nation Address, Zuma said government was looking into Oriani-Ambrosini's call made during the debate in the National Assembly on Wednesday (19 February).

Oriani-Ambrosini, who was diagnosed with stage four cancer last year, had made a plea to President Zuma to look into having the use of marijuana for medical reasons decriminalised. He said he had not used the drug illegally.

Zuma said: "I was touched to see the man I have known and worked with for more than 20 years in this condition. I have asked the Minister of Health to look into this matter," he said.

Oriani-Ambrosini, who had made the plea in his speech during the debate on Zuma's address, left the Parliament initially speechless but this was soon replaced by a standing ovation.

Public Service and Administration Minister Lindiwe Sisulu in reply to Ambrosini: "I have worked with you for many years and it hurts me to see you in the state that you are in. I had a word, as you were speaking, with the Minister of Health and he indicates to me we are really keen to follow up on the discussion and research around the world on the issue of the potential of decriminalising medical marijuana. We are a caring society."

Oriani-Ambrosini is expected to table a motion for a bill to support his cause in Parliament soon.