The Speaker of the Niue Assembly, Hima Douglas, emphasized the crucial role of the media in representing the Opposition when Parliamentary members are not fulfilling their duties. Speaking at a roundtable during the 7th Pacific Media Summit in Niue, Mr. Douglas noted that the media has traditionally provided a platform for Opposition voices, which can sometimes become isolated.
He pointed out that in Niue, the absence of an official Opposition in the Assembly makes it even more vital for the media to take on this role. Mr. Douglas expressed concern over a regional trend where governments are increasingly funding media organizations under the pretext of public service. He underscored the responsibility of public service broadcasters to act impartially, serving both the government and the public without bias, even when receiving government funding.
Additionally, Mr. Douglas highlighted that in small island nations, government ministers often neglect to respond to media inquiries. He suggested that the media can provoke a response by highlighting unanswered questions and making ministers aware of public scrutiny, which may encourage them to engage more actively in future communications.