MPs told of fear that cyber crime bill could harm right to freedom of expression
One critic says there are more substantive ways of dealing with fake news, such as civil education and teaching the public how to scrutinise and avoid false information
The role of social media in the Arab Spring, and the risk of fake news influencing political and economic events in SA, were among the questions MPs grappled with when they heard oral submissions on the Cybercrimes and Cybersecurity Bill on Wednesday. The bill aims to control interactions on social media with a view to preventing social media platforms from enabling hate speech, criminal activity and terrorism. However, various organisations fear its provisions will compromise the constitutional right to freedom of expression. MPs on the justice and correctional services committee heard submissions from organisations including the Centre for Constitutional Rights, Freedom of Religion SA, Right2Know and the Digital Law Company. Karabo Rajuili of Right2Know told the committee that the organisation still had reservations about the bill as its "vague" language opened the door to a government crackdown on social media. "The bill criminalises false information but has such a broad definit...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.