Veteran journalist Kalafi Moala from Tonga has been elected as the new President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA). Moala received 22 out of 36 votes, defeating the incumbent president Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea in a closely contested election.
Leilani Reklai from Palau has been elected as Vice President with 29 votes, surpassing Iliesa Tora.
The elections took place at the scenic Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar during the final day of the PINA Media Summit, where key discussions focused on critical media issues including press freedom, the impact of emerging technologies, and the role of women in Pacific media.
This election brought a notable change in leadership dynamics, introducing three women onto the seven-member board, an increase from two in the previous term. Moala expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in him and acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing president, Kora Nou, highlighting the importance of continuity for the association’s success.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” Moala stated, indicating a hope for younger leadership. He committed to serving only one term to allow for new leaders to emerge.
Moala emphasized the need for consistent leadership within PINA, suggesting a model where former presidents could provide guidance to their successors. He urged for closer relationships with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia, addressing the historical tensions between Fiji and Samoa.
“We need to build a closer relationship with Samoa. I’m committed to engaging with these areas and bringing those members together,” he said.
Moala also underlined the importance of connecting with diaspora media in nations such as New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, highlighting the larger Tongan population abroad and advocating for their full integration into PINA rather than being considered as associates.
Outgoing president Kora Nou, in his farewell remarks, reflected positively on his tenure, regarding it as a period of personal and professional growth. He noted the ongoing challenges for Pacific media, especially in upholding press freedom across the region.
“I do this for the love of the region. Regional media plays a vital role in ensuring a free press, and I hope the new board addresses these collective issues,” he stated.
As Nou and other outgoing board members stepped down, he expressed confidence in the newly elected leadership and reiterated his commitment to assist in any capacity, even though he is no longer president.
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 of Women in Media Fiji and Senior Journalist at MaiTV)