Entities and individuals who benefited from public relations contracts under the previous administration are now seeking to enter the media space or operate media organizations, according to Stanley Simpson, Secretary General of the Fiji Media Association. Speaking during a Press Freedom Day event at the University of the South Pacific, he highlighted the irony of these individuals who previously dismissed the media’s relevance now wanting to be part of it.
Simpson remarked on the challenges faced by the media, including attacks from fake social media accounts and a government-backed propaganda machine, emphasizing the vigilance needed to identify the true intentions of newly emerging media entities. He pointed out the struggles faced by the media while those once involved with the government are now trying to penetrate the media landscape that has been hard-fought for.
This commentary resonates with the ongoing discussions around the evolution of media in Fiji, especially in light of the recent repeal of the Media Industry Development Authority Act 2010. The repeal has been crucial in improving the media landscape, allowing for greater freedom of expression and the establishment of initiatives such as the proposed journalism institute and Press Club in Fiji. These developments are aimed at fostering a more vibrant democracy and enhancing public discourse.
The Fijian Media Association has expressed openness to credible news outlets while cautioning the community to be wary of those previously involved in political propaganda. This acknowledgment reflects a broader trend in Fiji’s media environment, where there is a need for transparency and integrity to restore public trust in journalism.
The ongoing shifts in Fiji’s media landscape indicate a positive trajectory towards a more informed and engaged society. By reinforcing journalistic integrity and supporting the establishment of educational institutions for aspiring journalists, there is potential for a healthier democratic process in Fiji’s future.
Leave a comment