The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has introduced a private member’s bill in the National Assembly, seeking to enact a complete ban on all alcohol advertising, promotion, and sponsorship across South Africa.

The proposed Liquor Amendment Bill, tabled by EFF MP Veronica Mente-Nkuna, aims to tackle the nation’s pervasive public health crisis fueled by alcohol abuse.

The legislation is a direct response to what the party describes as the normalization of alcohol, arguing that current advertising practices glamorise drinking and target vulnerable groups, particularly the youth.

According to an EFF statement, liquor brand marketing portrays alcohol as a lifestyle aspiration, concealing its devastating societal costs, including high rates of gender-based violence, road fatalities, and family breakdowns.

The party seeks to achieve a complete prohibition on alcohol advertisements in all media, including television, radio, print, and online platforms, a ban on using alcohol brand names, logos, or company sponsorships at public events, such as sports matches, concerts, and cultural gatherings.

The party also seeks to establish stricter legislative oversight to protect youth and children from alcohol-related marketing.

The EFF contends that while the costs of alcohol abuse such as the strain on public healthcare systems are borne by society, liquor companies evade accountability through slick advertising and irresponsible promotion.

A Call for Urgency

The party has urged the Speaker of the National Assembly to fast-track the bill, referring it to the Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition without delay. The EFF is also rallying civil society organizations, parents, educators, and health professionals to support the legislation and submit public comments during the parliamentary process.