Internet censorship: DA calls on Muthambi to brief Parliament
16 July 2015
I have today written to the Chairperson of the Communications Portfolio Committee, Joyce Moloi-Moropa, to request a ministerial briefing on the Film & Publication Board’s draft Online Regulation Policy.
The 90-day period for public comment ended yesterday, and it is already clear that opposition to the draft policy from industry, civil society and citizens has been overwhelming.
The Online Regulation Policy will require all individuals and organisations who upload digital content to first register with the Film & Publications Board, pay a fee prescribed by the Minister, and either submit the content to the Board for classification or self-classify in accordance with the Board's classification guidelines. Anybody who does not comply with the policy is liable to pay a fine or face a prison sentence of up to 6 months.
Legitimate concerns over the draft Online Regulation Policy include the following: