Veteran journalist Kalafi Moala from Tonga has been elected as the President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA). Moala secured 22 out of 36 votes, defeating the outgoing president Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea in a closely contested election.
Leilani Reklai from Palau was elected as the Vice President, obtaining 29 votes, which was enough to surpass her competitor Iliesa Tora.
The elections took place at the picturesque Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar on the final day of the PINA Media Summit. This event featured extensive discussions on crucial media issues, including press freedom, challenges posed by new technologies, and the role of women in Pacific media.
A notable change in the leadership dynamic was observed with three women now serving on the seven-member board, an increase from two in the prior term. Mr. Moala expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him and commended outgoing president Kora Nou for his dedication, emphasizing the importance of continuity for PINA’s success.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” expressed Mr. Moala, who indicated that he had hoped for a younger successor, possibly a woman. He committed to serving just one term to facilitate new leadership opportunities.
Mr. Moala also underscored the significance of maintaining consistency in PINA’s leadership and suggested a model where former presidents could mentor incoming leaders. He specifically acknowledged the invaluable experience of Mr. Nou, appealing for his continued involvement in the organization.
The newly elected president outlined his priorities for PINA, aiming to strengthen relationships with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia, recognizing the need for healing past divisions, particularly between Fiji and Samoa. “We need to build a closer relationship with Samoa. I’m committed to visiting these regions and uniting our members,” he stated.
In addition, Mr. Moala emphasized the necessity of connecting with diaspora media in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. “There are more Tongans living abroad than in Tonga,” he pointed out, advocating for full integration of diaspora media outlets into PINA, suggesting that the term ‘associates’ should be replaced with ‘full members.’
In his farewell remarks, Mr. Nou noted that he had no regrets regarding his presidency, characterizing his experience as one of significant personal and professional development. “It’s been a challenging but rewarding experience,” he reflected, thanking all those who supported him during his term.
He also highlighted ongoing challenges for Pacific media, particularly concerning the protection of press freedom across the region. “We work for the love of the region. The regional media is essential for upholding free press, and I trust the new board will continue addressing these collective issues,” he said.
As the outgoing board members, including Mr. Nou, Mr. Tora, and Georgina Kekea, concluded their tenure, Mr. Nou expressed confidence in the new leadership, assuring that he remains committed to the cause even as he steps down. “I’ll still be here to help where I can,” he assured.
The newly elected PINA board includes:
– Neville Choi (Media Council of PNG and National Media Associations Representative)
– Esther Pavihi (Niue Media Association and TV Representative)
– Katalina Tohi (Tonga BroadCom Radio Representative, retained)
– Fred Wesley (Fiji Times Editor, Print Representative, retained)
– Robert Iroga (Online Representative, retained, previously Vice President)
– Lavenia Lativerata, Coordinator for Women in Media Fiji and Senior Journalist at MaiTV.