Veteran Tongan journalist Kalafi Moala has been elected as the new President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA). Moala won 22 out of 36 votes in a closely contested election, succeeding outgoing president Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea.
In the election, held at the Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar during the final day of the PINA Media Summit, Leilani Reklai from Palau was elected Vice President, earning 29 votes to surpass competitor Iliesa Tora.
The summit featured significant discussions on critical media issues, including press freedom, the challenges posed by new technologies, and the role of women in Pacific media. The election also represented a change in leadership dynamics, with three women now serving on the seven-member board, an increase from two in the previous term. Moala expressed his appreciation for the trust placed in him and acknowledged the contributions of outgoing president Kora Nou.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” stated Moala, highlighting his hope for a younger candidate, potentially a woman. He committed to serving only one term to pave the way for fresh leadership.
Moala emphasized the importance of ongoing stability within PINA’s leadership and suggested that past presidents should continue to support new leaders. “We need constant continuity. Kora, we would like to keep you involved. Your experience is invaluable,” he said.
Setting forth his agenda, Moala aims to foster stronger relationships with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia, addressing the historically strained ties between Fiji and Samoa and advocating for reconciliation. “We need to build a closer relationship with Samoa. I’m committed to engaging with these areas,” he mentioned.
He also stressed the necessity of incorporating diaspora media from countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and the United States into PINA, asserting that there are more Tongans living abroad than in Tonga. “Diaspora media outlets should be fully integrated into PINA,” he stated, advocating for their inclusion as full members instead of mere associates.
In his farewell comments, Nou reflected positively on his time as PINA President, indicating that his tenure had been both challenging and rewarding. He expressed gratitude to those who worked with him and highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Pacific media in preserving press freedom.
Nou assured that he remains dedicated to the cause, even post-presidency, and will continue to lend his support wherever possible.
The newly elected PINA board comprises:
– 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 Women in Media Fiji and Senior Journalist at MaiTV)