Veteran Tongan journalist Kalafi Moala has been elected as the President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA). Moala won 22 out of 36 votes in a closely contested election, defeating the incumbent president Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea.
Leilani Reklai from Palau has been chosen as the Vice President, amassing 29 votes to surpass Iliesa Tora.
The elections took place at the picturesque Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar on the concluding day of the week-long PINA Media Summit, which featured extensive discussions on critical media topics, including press freedom, emerging technology challenges, and the role of women in Pacific media.
This election brought a notable change in leadership dynamics, with three women now serving on the seven-member board, an increase from two in the previous term. Mr. Moala expressed his appreciation for the faith placed in him.
He commended outgoing president Kora Nou for his contributions, emphasizing the importance of continuity for PINA’s growth.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” Mr. Moala stated, “thinking there would be someone younger, perhaps a woman. But now that I’m here, I’ll only serve one term to make way for new leadership.”
Mr. Moala also stressed the importance of maintaining continuity within PINA’s leadership, suggesting a model where former presidents continue to support new leaders.
“We need constant continuity. Kora, we would like you to stay involved. Your leadership over the years has been invaluable,” he said.
Mr. Moala pointed out his objectives for PINA, which include fostering stronger relationships with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia. He acknowledged the historical tensions between Fiji and Samoa and highlighted the necessity for reconciliation.
“We must strengthen our ties with Samoa. I’m dedicated to engaging with these areas to unite our members,” he remarked.
Additionally, he underscored the significance of connecting with diaspora media in nations like New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.
“There are more Tongans living abroad than in Tonga,” he noted, emphasizing the need to fully integrate diaspora media outlets into PINA, declaring that they should not be considered mere ‘associates’ but full members.
In his farewell comments, Mr. Nou expressed no regrets regarding his presidency, reflecting on a journey of personal and professional development.
“It’s been a challenging but rewarding experience,” Nou shared. “I’ve matured both personally and professionally, and I’m grateful to everyone who supported me during my time.”
He also acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by Pacific media, particularly in preserving press freedom.
“We do this for the love of our region. Regional media plays a vital role in maintaining a free press, and I hope the new board continues to address these collective issues,” he added.
As the outgoing board members, including Mr. Nou, Mr. Tora, and Georgina Kekea, completed their terms, Mr. Nou expressed his faith in the new leadership.
“I will continue to support our cause, even if I’m not President. I’ll be here to assist wherever possible,” he concluded.
The new PINA board consists of:
– Neville Choi (Media Council of PNG and National Media Associations Rep)
– Esther Pavihi (Niue Media Association and TV Rep)
– Katalina Tohi (Tonga BroadCom Radio Rep, retained)
– Fred Wesley (Fiji Times Editor, Print Rep, retained)
– Robert Iroga (Online Rep, retained, previously Vice President)
– Lavenia Lativerata (Coordinator of Women in Media Fiji and Senior Journalist at MaiTV)