Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has implored the Government to withdraw the proposed Tobacco Control Bill 2025 in its current form, citing lack of wider consultation and dialogue with stakeholders.
Organization Executive Director, Solomon Ngoma noted that the Bill, as drafted, introduces severe punitive measures including prison sentences of up to seven years for the mere act of selling cigarettes without warning signs.
“Such provisions are disproportionate, impractical, and risk undermining both the rights of citizens and the sustainability of the tobacco industry,” Mr. Ngoma stated.
He said the organization believes that such legislation must be approached with caution, transparency, and inclusivity.
“Our Members of Parliament must remember that one of the key reasons Zambians are increasingly disillusioned with their representatives is the tendency to pass laws that threaten freedoms without adequate consultation with the people,” he stated. “Laws that affect livelihoods, industries, and personal freedoms should never be rushed or imposed without meaningful engagement.”
According to Mr. Ngoma, if the Bill is passed in its current state, it would not only cripple the tobacco industry but also jeopardize the livelihoods of farmers, traders, and small business owners who depend on tobacco-related commerce.
“The tobacco industry in Zambia supports thousands of jobs and contributes to the economy,” Mr. Ngoma noted. “Zambia must avoid the temptation of copying unsuitable laws from other countries without considering our unique social and economic realities.”
He urged the government and Members of Parliament to withdraw the Tobacco Control Bill 2025 and reopen discussions with stakeholders including industry representatives, civil society, and the general public.
“Only through inclusive dialogue can Zambia craft legislation that balances public health concerns with economic sustainability and respect for individual freedoms,” Mr. Ngoma stressed.
Meanwhile, Zambia Media Network Against Tobacco (ZAMNAT) has condemned AIPAC’s call for the withdrawal of the Tobacco Control Bill 2025, describing the position as misleading, insensitive, and irresponsible in the face of overwhelming evidence about the devastating impact of tobacco on public health and the economy.
Network Chairperson, Paxina Phiri said in a statement that the tobacco industry has deliberately misinterpreted the Bill and incited farmers to speak against a law that is designed to protect them.
“This manipulation is shameful. From AIPAC’s statement, it is evident that they do not know what they are talking about, or worse, they are intentionally spreading misinformation to protect industry profits at the expense of Zambian lives,” she said.
Ms. Phiri explained that the Bill only regulates consumption to protect Zambians, especially children, from exploitation and addiction.
“For the Bill to reach Parliament, it has undergone extensive review. The industry’s demand for more consultation is simply a tactic to delay regulation and continue profiting at the expense of Zambian lives,” Ms. Phiri stated.
“We also recognize that Members of Parliament are responsible leaders who have been given the mandate to make laws that advance the people of Zambia in every aspect. We trust that they will rise to this responsibility and protect the health and future of our nation.”
