Designer PR - a trend?

Public Relations has evolved since its birth in the early part of the 20th century. It has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry. It is no longer only big corporations/ companies, politicians, or celebrities that use public relations professionals as their spokespersons. I find that individuals now use PRPs to act as their spokespersons. It has become a kind of 'trend'.

One example which has recently caught my attention is that of the Anni Dewani murder case which happened in Cape Town last year. Most of us have our suspicions and believe her husband, Shrien Dewani is responsible for the plotting of her murder. I recently saw an interview with Mr. Dewani's so-called publicist, Max Clifford ( a very experienced PR professional who has been in the PR industry for 40 years). It makes me wonder, what happened to the days when a murder case was just a murder case and the lawyer was responsible for everything that happens and what is said? Shrien Dewani has become a so-called celebrity with a publicist. Max Clifford is being paid to say everything Dewani wants him to say, regardless of what is right and what is wrong. It makes me think, how does a 'murderer' become a 'star'?

All the information which the publicist shares with the public is aimed at influencing and changing public opinion and attitutdes about the 'murderer'. Can you imagine how easily, with the correct wording and information sent out to the public, can influence their opinion on Shrien Dewani... (Taking into consideration that the judge and jury also form part of the public). Even though the lawyer is in court with the client, what is being said outside also plays a very important part in determining what the public says about the person.


I find it ethically incorrect that a person who is being charged with murder or any crime for that matter has the right to a publicist and feel that the law should take a deep look into putting a stop to this trend.