The Complainants are of the view that the Respondent, broadcast inaccurate and dishonest facts about them and that its failure to provide the necessary balance by hearing their side of the story to the broadcast led to their family’s reputational damage. The Respondent broadcast a 7-minute and 32 seconds follow-up segment on the story involving the Complainants in a 28-minute program, regarding outstanding rental payments in favour of Mr. Reyno van Rooyen. This was a follow-up of the 31st of March 2023 broadcast in similar vein but against which the Complainants did not lodge a complaint nor file an application for condonation for the late filing of their complaint. Despite the status quo, neither the Complainants nor their legal representative were able to attend the Tribunal. The Respondent explained the steps that were taken ensure that exceptional care and consideration were taken in dealing with this matter.
Judged within the context and the investigatory nature of the programme, the supporting documents and despite the Complainant’s hostility towards the process as depicted in the broadcast, the Respondent succeeded in complying with the requirement of exceptional care and consideration required by the provisions of the Code. No contravention of the Code found and complaint consequently dismissed.
CLICK TO VIEW FULL JUDGMENT(06) Mr & Mrs Naidoo vs e.tv Judgment