This press statement outlines civil society organizations' concern over the decision to return Zambia's Tobacco Control Bill for reconsideration after Parliament had already been dissolved. It argues that the Bill was developed through nearly two decades of consultations, technical reviews, regulatory assessments, Cabinet approval, and parliamentary scrutiny before being passed. The statement emphasizes that delaying the Bill threatens public health, particularly the protection of children and vulnerable populations from tobacco-related harm, while also imposing significant economic costs on the country. Civil society calls on the President to complete the legislative process by assenting to the Bill, stressing that effective tobacco control is essential for safeguarding lives, strengthening public health, and promoting Zambia's long-term development.