Veteran Tongan journalist Kalafi Moala has been elected as the new President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA). In a closely contested election, Moala garnered 22 out of 36 votes, defeating the outgoing president, Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea.
Leilani Reklai from Palau has been appointed as Vice President, receiving 29 votes over her opponent, Iliesa Tora.
The elections took place at the picturesque Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar, marking the conclusion of the PINA Media Summit, which featured extensive discussions on vital media matters, including press freedom, the effects of emerging technologies, and the role of women in media across the Pacific.
This election signifies a change in leadership dynamics, as the new board includes three women, an increase from the previous two. Moala expressed his appreciation for the confidence placed in him and acknowledged Kora Nou’s contributions during his tenure, emphasizing the importance of continuity for PINA.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” Moala stated, noting he had anticipated a younger, possibly female candidate. He committed to serving only one term to facilitate the transition to new leadership.
Moala stressed the significance of consistent leadership within PINA and proposed a model where past presidents remain involved in mentoring their successors. He expressed his desire to maintain Nou’s involvement, citing his invaluable experience.
In outlining his goals for PINA, Moala aimed to foster stronger connections with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia, reflecting on past tensions between Fiji and Samoa and the importance of reconciliation.
“We need to build a closer relationship with Samoa. I am dedicated to visiting these areas and involving those members in our mission,” he stated.
Moreover, Moala underscored the necessity of engaging with diaspora media in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, pointing out that there are more Tongans living abroad than in Tonga itself. He advocated for the full integration of diaspora media outlets into PINA, suggesting that the current designation of “associates” be abandoned in favor of full membership.
In his farewell remarks, Nou expressed no regrets about his leadership, describing his experience as one of growth both personally and professionally. He highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Pacific media in preserving press freedom and the fundamental role regional media plays in this pursuit.
“As we work for the love of our region, I trust that the new board will continue to address these important issues,” he remarked.
As the outgoing board members, including Nou, Tora, and Georgina Kekea, concluded their terms, Nou reassured his commitment to the cause and expressed his willingness to assist the new leadership as needed.
The newly elected PINA board comprises:
– 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.