30 July 1997

The Freedom of Expression Institute welcomes the decision by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament to refer her complaint about alleged defamatory articles in two newspapers to the Press Ombudsman. In the process, Ms Mbete-Kgositsile has waived her right to pursue a defamation claim against the two newspapers, the Sunday Times and the Sowetan.

The FXI supports the right of the public to have access to an independent and voluntary complaints mechanism, which can and should adjudicate between the public and the media on matters pertaining to media ethics and professional standards of journalism. This process has the effect of maintaining the highest standards of journalism by adjudicating matters in terms of an accepted Press Code.

We regard it as a courageous step by Mbete-Kgositsile to resist the temptation of resorting to costly legal action that could have the effect of criminalising the actions of journalists in the course of their role of watchdogs of government.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT - JANE DUNCAN AT (011) 403-8403/648-5264 OR RAASHIED GALANT AT (011) 403-8403/082-9202