State Council discusses draft Laws on combating narcotics

MUSCAT: The State Council held its 7th session of the third regular convening during the 8th Term on Monday. The Council discussed a draft Law on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, as well as draft laws amending certain provisions of the Personal Data Protection Law and the Penal Law.

The meeting was chaired by Shaikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council. He opened the session by mentioning several draft laws referred by the Council of Ministers, expressing hope for constructive discussions from members.

The discussion on the "Draft Law on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances" was based on Article (50) of the Council of Oman Law.

The meeting also addressed the "Draft Unified Scheme for International Land Transport Among GCC States," in accordance with Article (49) of the Council of Oman Law. The amendment to the "Draft Law on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances" aims to implement the objectives of the National Strategy for Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances.

Majid bin Abdullah al Alawi commented on the issue, stating that the global drug issue is a serious concern, and the project aims to address it through legislation, institutions, and future preparedness. He added that the law introduces new aspects, including chemical precursors, to tackle current and emerging threats.

The discussion on the 'Draft Law on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances' was based on Article (50) of the Council of Oman Law.

Shaikh Hilal bin Hamad al Kalbani emphasised the importance of the project in protecting personal data, noting that the amendments respond to practical needs and are largely organisational to keep up with developments.

Sariya bint Khalfan al Hadi mentioned that the amendments aim to criminalise bribery in the private sector, which will help protect fair competition and support commitments related to combating corruption.

Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed al Mahrooqi described the law as "the first of its kind at the GCC level," stating that it will unify procedures and specifications, facilitate cross-border movement, and contribute to enhancing trade and investment in the transport sector.

The draft amendment to provisions of the Penal Law complements Oman's efforts to implement the requirements of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. It aims to upgrade Oman's ranking in the Index on Corruption Perceptions, through coordination with the country’s anti-corruption system, support corporate governance in the private sector, fulfil international obligations and protect economic interests.

The draft amendment to provisions of the Personal Data Protection Law includes a definition for ‘automated processing’ and specifies the law's scope. The provisions deal with the processing of personal data of natural persons in Oman, both domestically and internationally.

Although the amendment requires data processors to delete personal data after processing is completed, personal data may be retained in case of a dispute between the data controller and the owner of personal data, or to fulfil a legal obligation imposed on the processing party under any law.