FMA urges stronger court security after attempted assault on journalists outside Suva High Court
The Fijian Media Association (FMA) has condemned an attempted assault on journalists outside the High Court in Suva, calling on police to take urgent measures to safeguard media workers as they report on court proceedings. The incident occurred as convicted murderer Tevita Kapawale was being escorted from the courthouse in handcuffs to a waiting vehicle following his sentencing.
According to the FMA Secretary Stanley Simpson, Kapawale allegedly lunged at a female journalist, a photographer, and two male reporters who were carrying out their duties to inform the public about the court case. The association underscored that this was not an isolated incident and criticized what it described as repeated police failures to provide adequate security for media personnel covering court events. Journalists play a critical role in transparency and accountability within the justice system, Simpson said, and they must be able to report on matters of public interest without facing violence or intimidation.
In response, the FMA is demanding immediate action from the Fiji Police Force to implement robust security protocols for court proceedings. Key requests include securing perimeters during prisoner transport and ensuring a visible police presence to protect journalists from violent offenders. The message from the association is clear: the safety of journalists is non-negotiable, and police must improve their protective efforts.
Context and broader concerns
This incident aligns with ongoing concerns raised by the FMA about media access and safety in Fiji. In recent months, the association has highlighted restrictions on reporters during high-profile hearings and suspected blocks on media access to courtrooms. Industry reports have also documented threats and harassment against journalists, with women journalists often facing heightened risks. The FMA’s call emphasizes the need for clearer coordination among the judiciary, court registries, and police to prevent repeat incidents and to safeguard public access to justice.
Practical recommendations
– Immediate review and tightening of prisoner-escort procedures around the High Court and other courts, including controlled access routes and buffer zones between detainees and media.
– A visible, adequate number of police officers dedicated to securing court entrances and during transfers.
– Clear, published protocols for media access and safety at court events, developed collaboratively by the judiciary, police, and media representatives.
– Targeted measures to protect female journalists, reflecting documented risks and past harassment.
– Incident reporting and independent review of security breaches to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
Why this matters
Threats or obstructions against journalists covering court proceedings undermine public visibility of the justice process. Ensuring reporter safety is essential not only for the wellbeing of media workers but also for maintaining the transparency necessary in a healthy democracy.
Additional comments
News organizations should document and report all threats or assaults on staff, conduct routine risk assessments before court coverage, and provide safety training for field crews. The judiciary and police should publish timelines for implementing agreed security improvements and report back to media bodies to rebuild trust.
Short summary
The FMA condemned an attempted assault on reporters outside Suva’s High Court after Tevita Kapawale’s sentencing, calling for stronger police protection of media workers. The organisation highlighted broader concerns about media access and safety and urged concrete, joint reforms to security protocols and court procedures.
Hopeful angle
This incident offers an opportunity for the judiciary, police, and media to collaborate on timely, concrete reforms that will enhance journalist safety, reinforce open justice, and strengthen public confidence in how court proceedings are managed.
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