Women For Change initiates legal action to protect its reputation

Women For Change confirms that it has instituted multiple claims for defamation against Mr Blaine Fortuin (@TattoedPapi) following the publication and continued dissemination of false, defamatory and unsubstantiated statements in relation to our organisation on social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram.

Despite affording Mr Blaine an opportunity to remove the defamatory content and to refrain from publishing further harmful material, he nevertheless elected to persist in making baseless claims that have caused severe and irreparable harm to the reputation and work of Women for Change. We cannot allow these actions to undermine the credibility of our work, which is dedicated to creating positive societal change.

Women for Change is deeply committed to promoting and protecting constitutional rights. As an organisation that roots itself in the principles of justice and equality, we recognise that the constitutional right to freedom of expression is the cornerstone of South Africa’s constitutional dispensation. We acknowledge that this right is essential for fostering open dialogues, enabling accountability and advancing societal progress. However, we must emphasise that the right to freedom of expression is not absolute. When misused to spread false and defamatory statements, it infringes upon the rights of others to have their integrity and reputation protected against malicious attacks. A difference of opinion will always be inevitable, and whilst we are open to engaging in dialogues in a respectful and honest manner, we cannot allow false and demeaning statements to be made against us without any repercussions.

Women for Change will not engage in further public discussions or respond to social media commentary regarding this matter. Instead, we will respect the legal processes and are confident that the courts will address this matter appropriately.

Women for Change remains committed to its mission and the communities it serves and will continue its work, undeterred by these events.

For media enquiries, please contact info@womenforchange.co.za