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The portal's representative Madara Peipina told LETA that Abele has decided to step aside, and talks are under way with other persons determined to push ahead and submit the initiative to the parliament. They all are supporters, but their names will not be revealed to the public. The next development is expected in about a month, added Peipina.

The portal has spoken to Abele, however, he has declined to submit the initiative to Saeima, said Peipina. Abele's decision may be explained by the fact that he does not live in Latvia at the moment, Peipina indicated.

As reported, more than 10,000 people have signed the www.manabalss.lv petition proposing to decriminalize marijuana in Latvia, which means that the motion is eligible for submission to the parliament. The initiative was launched on www.manabalss.lv on January 23, 2012. The signature drive continued for more than two years.

In the petition, Abele calls for abolishing the penalties for smoking marijuana, as well as growing or possession of small amounts of marijuana for own needs, if the person is 18 or older.