The National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa (NITASA), representing over two million traders, has condemned its exclusion from Parliament’s Tobacco Bill hearings. NITASA argues the move undermines democracy by silencing those most affected. The Bill’s ban on single cigarette sales, product displays, and heavy penalties could devastate informal traders’ livelihoods and fuel illicit trade. Chairperson Rosheda Muller calls for the hearings to be reopened to ensure fairness and inclusion.