This case deals with a complaint that the broadcast of news item defamed the Complainant without giving him the opportunity to put his side of case. The Tribunal found that clause 11(1) of the Broadcasting Code relating to the broadcasting of news truthfully, accurately and fairly was violated, despite the fact that the Broadcaster considered itself bound by a policy of the Department of Education requiring the media to enquire from the spokesperson of the Department and not from officials. The Broadcaster was ordered to allow the Complainant airtime to put his side of the case, should he so wish.
CLICK TO VIEW FULL JUDGMENTcase no 05-2017
[2017] JOL 38268 (BCCSA)