Online Safety Commissioner Filipe Batiwale has praised a recent High Court ruling that imposed a $50,000 fine on a businessman for defaming a colleague on Facebook. This ruling, he stated, reinforces the essential principle that laws governing defamation apply equally to online and offline behavior.
Batiwale urged the public to exercise caution before sharing their thoughts on social media. High Court Judge Justice Deepthi Amaratunga found that real estate agent Reginald Jokhan’s defamatory posts towards fellow agent Anand Krishna Goundar warranted significant damages due to their false, harmful, and malicious nature. Batiwale emphasized that social media is not a free-for-all where individuals can express damaging opinions without facing repercussions.
He noted the critical impact of online posts in Fiji, where misinformation can quickly escalate, affecting individuals, families, and businesses alike. The court’s recognition of the “viral effect” of online publications aligns perfectly with the intentions behind the Online Safety Act, as stated by Batiwale. He urged users to verify the truthfulness and fairness of the content they share.
Information Minister Lynda Tabuya echoed these sentiments, reminding citizens of their responsibilities as “netizens.” Tabuya pointed out that online platforms do not grant a license for irresponsible speech and that defamation and online safety laws are very much applicable in the digital sphere. The ruling serves as a poignant reminder to the public that harmful online behavior can lead to legal consequences.
She called for kindness and respect among netizens, particularly during the “16 Days of Activism,” a campaign focusing on raising awareness about digital violence, particularly against women and girls. By promoting a culture of respect and responsibility online, both Batiwale and Tabuya hope to foster a safer digital community for all users.
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