Prominent Suva lawyer Jon Apted emphasized that freedom of expression does not grant the right to harm others. Apted, who has a substantial social media following, noted that social media had become increasingly toxic in recent months.
He explained that traditionally, people did not enjoy freedom of speech, and platforms like Facebook seemed to offer the opportunity for unrestrained expression for the first time in many people’s lives. However, he pointed out that legally, freedom of speech is not unlimited and does not include the freedom to harm others.
Apted highlighted that many individuals on social media sites like Chat Fiji are unaware they are breaking the law by engaging in harmful speech. He stressed the need to educate people that it is not their right to say things that can hurt others.
Furthermore, Apted stated that while the public has the right to express their beliefs about various issues, this does not extend to using platforms to share harmful statements, images, or recordings. The law does not permit shaming or belittling others, akin to malicious village gossip, and it will protect individuals against such abuse of freedom of speech.
This discussion comes amid heavy speculation on social media that the tragic death of 37-year-old local social media influencer, Esala Seru, was linked to alleged cyberbullying. Police confirmed his death was an alleged suicide, but the exact circumstances leading to his death remain under investigation. Assistant Police Commissioner – Crime Mesake Waqa indicated that they could not speculate on the specifics of Seru’s death as it is part of an ongoing investigation. Inquiries sent to the Online Safety Commission regarding Seru’s passing have so far gone unanswered.