LEADER of the Opposition Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa has reminded his fellow Members of Parliament, in particular the Prime Minister and Ministers, to exercise proper consideration and reason before filing cybercrime complaints with the Police.
Mr Tomuriesa made this remark after noting there has been a significant number of cybercrime cases being progressed in court over complaints by the Prime Minister or other politicians over social media commentary and discourse.
Mr Tomuriesa said: “It has become a worrying trend to see individuals expressing any form of criticism or comments against the Prime Minister or other government leaders getting arrested by police and having to defend themselves in court with minimal resources.
“I understand unsubstantiated criticism can be frustrating to see circulated on social media, and other negative commentary, but I remind all MPs that criticism comes with the job when we become politicians.
“Yes, there are instances when unfounded claims with baseless allegations are made, but we must remember we all have critics, naysayers and opponents who constantly challenge our leadership – this is a fundamental right in democracy to express discontent if required.
“While I’ll let our court system moderate ongoing cases, my appeal is for all leaders, especially the Prime Minister, to exercise due consideration before filing complaints against negative criticism.”
Mr Tomuriesa said the uptake in cybercrime cases against individuals will undoubtedly intimidate the general public from simply expressing their views, criticism and disagreement with the current government.
“While I also urge the general public to be mindful, respectful and constructive in their criticism toward leaders, I regret these cybercrime cases have been used as a tool to intimidate political opponents, and in addition, is unnecessarily consuming police time and resources when there are other serious cases that need attention.
“I have been in politics for over a decade and have been subject to countless criticisms. It can be frustrating, but the best response is to perform better to give the critics less to talk about.
“In instances of death threats and serious defamatory content I do think complaints and investigation is justified. But the habitual social media trolls and criticism from frustrated citizens can be responded to appropriately or brushed aside without the need of going to police,” said Mr Tomuriesa.
