Johan Retief
latest news & developments
Ombud okays media naming high-profile, probable gender-harm perpetrators
Publications can now identify a person alleged to have done such harm, but defamation rules still apply
Ombud dismisses ‘offensive’ Molefe cartoon complaint
"Though the cartoon may offend, and has offended at least one complainant, Retief found, it neither mocks Christ nor puts him in a bad light."
Press ombud confirms rise in newspaper complaints
The Press Council’s Ombudsman has reported to editors a 70% increase over the last three years in the number of complaints about newspaper reports.
‘Confusion’ complaint against Cape Times dismissed
The press ombudsman has dismissed a complaint made by Mathole Motshekga about a <i>Cape Times</i> Protection of State Information Bill story.
Zapiro slams new press code
The cartoonist believes it is too prescriptive and ignores the creative freedom of artists.
Sowetan sex pics not in public interest, says ombud
The <em>Sowetan</em> newspaper has been ordered to print apologies for publishing prominent pictures of two officers having sex while on duty.
Sowetan to apologise to Buthelezi
The press ombudsman has ordered the <i>Sowetan</i> to run a front page apology to IFP president Mangosuthu Buthelezi for damage to his credibility.
Press complaints tally for 2011 may double that of 2009
The press ombudsman has said he expects the total number of complaints lodged with it for 2011 to be nearly double the tally for 2009.