- Criticism of Department of Health’s Advertising: ActionSA has strongly criticised the Department of Health for airing radio adverts claiming vaping is as harmful as cigarette smoking, stating that the messaging is misleading and unsupported by scientific evidence.
- Scientific Evidence on Vaping vs. Smoking: Dr. Kgosi Letlape from ActionSA pointed out that while vaping has risks, scientific research shows it is significantly less harmful than traditional cigarettes, and the department’s claims are therefore false.
- Concern Over Legislation and Public Messaging: The party expressed concern that the adverts are being broadcast while the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill is still under consideration, which could mislead the public and undermine legislative processes.
ActionSA has strongly criticised the Department of Health for authorising radio adverts that claim vaping is as harmful as smoking cigarettes. The party’s Member of Parliament, Dr Kgosi Letlape, said on 19 August 2025 that the department’s messaging is misleading and does not align with available scientific evidence.
According to Dr Letlape, while vaping carries risks, research consistently shows it is not equal to the health dangers posed by traditional cigarettes.
“By insisting otherwise, the Department is spreading propaganda rather than facts,” he said.
The party expressed concern that the adverts are being broadcast while the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill remains under consideration in the Portfolio Committee on Health. ActionSA argues that presenting contested provisions of the bill as if they are already law undermines Parliament’s constitutional role and misleads the public.
“South Africans are entitled to honest, evidence-based information, not scare tactics that distort the truth,” Dr Letlape emphasised.
ActionSA called on the Department of Health to withdraw the adverts immediately and to respect the legislative process currently underway.
The party said it will continue holding government accountable to ensure that laws and public health messaging are guided by science and transparency rather than fear-driven narratives.
