Latin for "hear the other side." A fundamental principle of natural justice requiring that a decision-maker must hear both sides before making a decision that affects a person's rights.
The audi alteram partem principle is a core requirement of procedural fairness in South African administrative law, codified in PAJA. Any administrative decision that materially and adversely affects a person must be preceded by adequate notice and an opportunity for the affected person to make representations. Failure to comply with this principle makes the decision reviewable.
A municipality cannot demolish a structure without first giving the owner notice of the intended demolition and an opportunity to object — even if the structure violates building regulations.
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