BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – The High Court has dismissed a constitutional challenge to Barbados’ Sacramental Cannabis Act, ruling that restrictions governing the use of cannabis by Rastafarians do not unlawfully infringe on religious freedom.

Delivering the decision on Friday in the No. 8 Supreme Court, Justice Michelle Weekes rejected claims brought by Paul 'Ras Simba' Rock through attorney Lalu Hanuman, who argued that the legislation prevented him from using cannabis during religious ceremonies conducted at his home.

Rock also contended that the 2019 law failed to make provision for Rastafari women who, under certain religious practices, are not permitted in Nyabinghi tabernacles during menstruation and are instead expected to worship at home.