As Fiji prepares to head to the polls later this year — the ability for the media to freely carry out its role cannot be understated, says Social Democratic Liberal Party leader Viliame Gavoka.
He said in the coming months, the nation will bear witness to differing views, opinions and ideologies by political figures and that it was crucial for the media to stand as the fourth estate to ensure that accurate and factual information was disseminated to the Fijian population.
Mr Gavoka said during critical times such as election year, the media must play an active role in ensuring that the voting population were well-informed on issues and policies.
“For Fiji to fully function as a democracy, any government in power must provide the safe space for the media to effectively carry out its role,” he said.
Mr Gavoka said a SODELPA government would also review the Media Act 2010, part of the long list of draconian laws that needs to change.
While commemorating World Press Freedom Day, Mr Gavoka said the media played a crucial role in carrying out its duties without fear or favour.
He said in any functioning democracy the media must be protected at all costs.
Mr Gavoka said annually, World Press Freedom Day was commemorated on May 3 after it was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference and since then, had been observed worldwide.
“In this modern day and age, many of us are now able to access information from the palm of our hands through digital means, and social media is one of the main platforms.”
And while some may wait for the official news to be broadcasted through television or radio, Mr Gavoka said the rest could access information through a single tweet or Facebook post by a journalist.
“World Press Freedom Day is commemorated to serve as a reminder to governments around the world of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom and is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics.
“SODELPA recognises the vital work that the media plays in our struggling democracy and the need to provide an environment that is safe, conducive and free of fear and oppression.
“We must also bear in mind the lives of journalists that were threatened over the years.
“A journalist lost his life as a result of covering one of Fiji’s most turbulent times such as the 2000 and 2006 coups.”
The theme for this year’s World Press Freedom Day is “Journalism under Digital Siege.”
