The Malta Independent 25 April 2024, Thursday
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Min Imissu comedy show to go ahead as court turns down injunction request

Saturday, 25 November 2017, 16:54 Last update: about 7 years ago

The theatrical comedy show Min Imissu has been given the green light after the Civil Court turned down attempts to block references to the controversial pastor Gordon-John Manche, and his spouse.

The couple had asked for a prohibitory injunction, claiming two satirical characters were intended to make fun of him and his wife.

The two felt annoyed that the production poked fun atManche's views on homosexuality. Mr Justice Anthony Ellul said the pastor hosted a religious programme on a local station, airing his views on the subject for years.

These views resulted in controversy, prompting the producers of the comedy show to create two comical characters mimicking the Manches, appearing in a comedic television show.

The court noted that a balance has to be found between freedom of expression and a person's honour.

The court also noted that Manche's wife was a public figure who has been on TV shows. The court also noted that the theatrical comedy was not going to feature anything different from what was in the TV show over the past months.

The court rejected the application for an injunction, and noted that there are other judicial remedies, such as defamatory proceedings, available to the Manches should they wish to pursue them.

 


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