Normative analysis of the interpretation of the element of defamation in the decision of the East Jakarta PNTL No. 203/PID.SUS/2023 reviewed from the decision of the MK 50/PUU-VI/2008
Keywords:
Defamation, Judicial Interpretation, Freedom of Expression, ITE LawAbstract
The application of Article 27 paragraph (3) of the Electronic Information and Transactions Law still causes debate, especially regarding the interpretation of defamation in the digital space. The Constitutional Court, through Decision Number 50/PUU-VI/2008, has emphasized the importance of limiting the interpretation of this norm by requiring a clear distinction between opinion and factual allegations that can be verified. However, in judicial practice, the consistency of the application of these constitutional parameters is still questionable. This study aims to analyze how the East Jakarta District Court interpreted the element of defamation in Decision Number 203/Pid.Sus/2023 and assess its conformity with the interpretation parameters formulated by the Constitutional Court. This study uses a normative legal research method with a regulatory approach, a case approach, and a conceptual approach. Data was obtained through a literature study of court decisions, regulations, and relevant legal literature, then analyzed qualitatively through legal reasoning and normative comparison. The results of the study show that the East Jakarta District Court acquitted the defendant based on the qualification of the statement as an opinion, without systematically elaborating on the testing of the factual content and context of the statement. This interpretation does not fully reflect the constitutional parameters that require a step-by-step analysis, particularly regarding the verifiability of statements and potential attacks on a person's honor. This study concludes that there is a discrepancy between the interpretation standards set by the Constitutional Court and their application in the verdict. The contribution of this study lies in emphasizing the importance of a more structured interpretation framework to ensure legal certainty while protecting freedom of expression in electronic defamation cases.
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