Daniel Selebano vs Sowetan

SUMMARY

The headline to the story in dispute read, Plot to kill ANC leader (published on 11 March 2013).

This ruling by Press Ombud Johan Retief was based on the Press Code that was in effect before 30 September 2022.

Daniel Selebano complained that the reporter had illegally recorded him, without his knowledge or consent.

Retief said public interest made the question if the newspaper gathered its information from him illegally irrelevant.

The complaint was dismissed.

THE RULING ITSELF

Dear Mr Selebano

Your complaint against the Sowetan (Plot to kill ANC leader, published on 11 March 2013) refers.

In your complaint you say that the newspaper has illegally recorded you, without your knowledge or consent.

Sowetan argues its case quite convincingly, but be that as it may: Section 1.1 of the Press Code says: “News should be obtained legally…unless public interest dictates otherwise.” (emphasis added)

The story was clearly in the public interest, which makes the question if the newspaper gathered its information from you illegally quite irrelevant.

I therefore dismiss your complaint.

Our Complaints Procedures lay down that within seven working days of receipt of this decision, either party may apply for leave to appeal to the Chairperson of the SA Press Adjudication Panel, Judge Bernard Ngoepe, fully setting out the grounds of appeal. He can be contacted at [email protected].

Regards

Johan