Benjamin Padarath, a 56-year-old political activist, has been released on bail by the Suva Magistrates Court following charges linked to an online post made in May. He is accused of sharing a doctored newspaper article on his social media that purportedly contained false information about two well-known individuals, allegedly aimed at causing harm.
Padarath was arrested in Nadi just a day before his court appearance, facing a single charge for causing harm through electronic communication. During proceedings, the Police Prosecutor expressed concerns about the severity of online misinformation and its potential societal impact. However, the prosecution struggled to provide necessary disclosures to substantiate their objections to bail.
In Padarath’s defense, his attorney, Simione Valenitabua, argued that bail should be granted based on both statutory and constitutional rights, noting that the law generally favors releasing individuals on bail. The court ultimately agreed to the bail request, stipulating strict conditions for Padarath, including limitations on travel and usage of social media platforms.
The case has been scheduled for further hearing on February 18, allowing time for the necessary legal discussions to unfold. This decision highlights an ongoing conversation about the standards of accountability in the digital realm, particularly regarding the potential consequences of spreading misinformation online.
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