Photo by Dean Knuth / Arizon Daily Star
Rapper Wiz Khalifa found himself dealing with a “sticky” (of the less-fun variety) situation at the Beach Please! Festival last week in Costinesti, Romania. The “Black and Yellow” singer was arrested after allegedly smoking onstage. During day three of the festival, he lit a joint, an act deemed illegal in Romania, where recreational cannabis use is prohibited. A video circling social media showed the rapper being escorted off stage following his performance. He faces charges of illegal drug possession.
“Constanța Territorial Service ordered the initiation of criminal proceedings against a defendant (US citizen), investigated for the crime of illegal drug possession risk. It was noted that he, during a recital held during a music festival held in the Costinești resort, Constanța county, possessed over 18 grams of cannabis (risk drug) and consumed (on stage) another amount of cannabis under the shape of a craft cigarette,” according to the statement from the Directorate for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Terrorism in Romania, translated via Google Translate.
Khalifa was not identified as the “US citizen” in the official statement. But he acknowledged the incident in a post on X.
“Last night’s show was amazing. I didn’t mean any disrespect to the country of Romania by lighting up on stage,” he said. “They were very respectful and let me go. I’ll be back soon. But without a big a– joint next time.”
Later that day, Khalifa, seemingly unaffected by the incident, posted a video on Instagram showing him smoking in front of the Eiffel Tower with the caption, “I’m French now.“
Khalifa and Cannabis
The Pittsburgh-born rapper has carved out a distinct niche in the industry for his chart-topping hits and his unapologetic embrace of cannabis culture. This was not Khalifa’s first run-in with the law over cannabis. In a candid YouTube video from 2014, Khalifa disclosed having been arrested 21 times for cannabis-related offenses.
Khalifa has also long integrated cannabis into his performances. He stated in a 2015 interview with Esquire, “I want to be as high as I can when I perform. When I smoke it just gives me the best thoughts ever. I’m not really thinking about what’s going on. I’m just letting it happen. My memory is just flowing and I can do things right on the spot without ever having to think about it ’cause I feel free.”
While Wiz isn’t the first hip-hop icon to show love for weed through his music, he’s on a mission to destigmatize and normalize consumption. From his early days and breakout mixtape “Kush & Orange Juice,” Khalifa has been vocal about his affinity for cannabis. He integrates it into his music, lifestyle, and entrepreneurial endeavors, leading to to international stardom with pop radio anthems like “Young, Wild & Free.” Central to this connection is the ownership of Khalifa Kush. The strain was initially tailored for him in 2012 and has since evolved into a cannabis brand known for quality and consistency.
Cannabis Laws in Romania
Romania has stringent laws regarding cannabis possession, imposing severe penalties that underscore the country’s stance. For example, possession of cannabis in Romania can potentially result in sentences of up to 10 years in prison.
Understanding and adhering to regulations is crucial for both residents and visitors to Romania. Travelers are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with Romania’s drug laws before entering the country.
The country does have limited provisions for medical cannabis use. In 2013, legislation was enacted allowing for the medical use of cannabis derivatives under tightly controlled conditions. This includes cannabis-based medicines prescribed by authorized physicians for qualifying medical conditions. Patient prescriptions may only be in pharmaceutical forms, such as oils, balms, or tinctures. Still, cannabis is listed as a high-risk drug, and consumption of flower by vaping or smoking is not permitted under any circumstances.
However, CBD does enjoy legal status in Romania, akin to many other European countries. This is provided that the THC content in the product remains below 0.2%.
Advocacy and Cultural Impact
The incident in Romania illuminates more than just legal nuances—it highlights the artist’s unwavering commitment to cannabis culture and advocacy. Beyond headlines and legal tussle, Khalifa’s stance resonates with a global audience pushing for progressive cannabis reform. As attitudes toward cannabis evolve globally, his experiences in Romania serve as a reminder of the ongoing battle between cultural acceptance and legal frameworks, urging fans and policymakers alike to reconsider outdated perceptions of cannabis.
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