
Wrongfulness is based on intent as opposed to negligence. Even where it remains that the comment was wrongful, the defendant might still have several defences like:
1. Truth of the statement;
2. That the comments are in public interest;
3. That the comment was just an opinion and not given as a fact;
4. That the comment was fair under the circumstances;
5. That the comment was made under circumstances of qualified privilege, where the defendant had a duty and someone else had a duty to receive the comment.
The fact that comment is the truth does not mean that it is not defamatory. The test to determine defamation is the reasonable person of normal intelligence and how he viewed it. The defendant can succeed with his defence of fair comment and public interest if no element of maliciousness is involved. The plaintiff only has to prove that the comment was prima facie defamatory of his character and that it was publicised.
Publication can be to a specific person or within hearing distance to the general public and is material if heard by or publicised under the public by a book, postings on websites, or bulletin boards on the Internet.
The onus is on the defendant to prove his defences on a balance of probabilities. This means that where two versions are before a court it should decide on the most probable version under the circumstances. When the court cannot decide which version is the truth for arguments sake and the defendant raised it as defence he then will not succeed with his defence.
In a democracy, forthright criticism, wild accusations and innuendos – often unfair and unfounded – are part and parcel of political activity and right-thinking persons in society generally do not think less of politicians who are subjected to derogatory statements by opposing politicians or political commentators. The context might cause material that would otherwise have been defamatory to be no more than mere abuse. Courts allow wide latitude for political debate and politicians should not be over-hasty in complaining. Nonetheless, it is important to note that courts extend latitude, not immunity, and there are limits: any latitude extends only to political information or activity or issues pertaining to the country’s governance, not beyond; and a distinction must also be drawn between an unwarranted attack on the dignity and reputation of a politician and an attack on the person’s political views, policies and conduct. Courts have to give effect to the values of openness, transparency and accountability, yet protect dignity and privacy. It seems that the bounds are exceeded where improper motives or dishonourable conduct is imputed.
Source:
1. Law of South Africa, Volume 8(1) – Second Edition Volume
2. DELTA MOTOR CORPORATION (PTY) LTD v VAN DER MERWE 2004 (6) SA 185 (SCA)
3. Constitution of the Republic of SA, 1996 ss 10 and 16. National Media Ltd v Bogoshi 1998 4 All SA 347 (SCA)
This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your legal adviser for specific and detailed advice.