The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has expressed serious concern over what it describes as an alarming rise in sensationalized and irresponsible online commentary targeting witnesses in ongoing criminal proceedings.
In a strong statement released today, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva cautioned both the public and ODPP staff against posting misleading headlines, inflammatory narratives, or public attacks on witnesses, especially on social media platforms.
“Witnesses play a vital role in the criminal justice system. We must respect and protect them, as without their courage to come forward, the truth may remain hidden,” Ms Tikoisuva said.
“Attacking or discrediting witnesses can lead to fear, intimidation, and may discourage others from testifying in court.”
She reminded journalists, media organisations, content creators, and the general public that such actions could compromise the integrity of court proceedings and may constitute contempt of court.
While reaffirming the ODPP’s commitment to media freedom and the public’s right to expression, Ms Tikoisuva stressed that these rights must be exercised with responsibility and fairness.
“Freedom of expression is not a licence to harass, vilify or intimidate individuals fulfilling their legal duty in court,” she said.
The ODPP outlined key reminders for the public and the media that witnesseses must be treated with respect and protected from intimidation, sensational or biased reporting can jeopardize fair trials, individuals are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and the judicial process must proceed without external interference.
Ms Tikoisuva also issued a stern warning to ODPP staff, ordering them to refrain from commenting on ongoing cases on social media platforms.
“Let the judiciary and the criminal justice system take its natural course, without interference or undue influence,” she said.
