The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) is advocating for the preservation of freedom of expression and press freedom throughout the Pacific region. This comes in response to concerns raised by the Palau Media Council and the Pacific Freedom Forum regarding a defamation lawsuit brought against the national newspaper, Island Times Palau, by the father of Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr.
On October 29, Surangel and Sons, the company owned by Whipps Sr., filed a civil lawsuit against the newspaper’s editor, Leilani Reklai. The following day, President Whipps Jr. expressed his sentiments during a press conference, labeling the newspaper as a source of “political propaganda” and stating that it does not present accurate information.
In a statement, PINA declared its intention to seek support for Reklai on both regional and international levels. PINA’s president, Kalafi Moala, emphasized the critical importance of the media in upholding democracy, asserting that the call for freedom should resonate not only in Palau but across the entire Pacific.
Moala voiced concerns regarding the erosion of freedom of speech and press in various nations, highlighting a trend of intimidation against media personnel, especially by those in power. He underscored PINA’s firm stance against what they perceive as attempts to intimidate the press in Palau and mentioned that PINA has already reached out to the office of the Palau President with their concerns.
“In a democracy, freedom of speech is essential. Our advocacy for freedom directly supports the essence of democratic principles,” Moala stated, noting the significance of these issues as Palauans voted in the recent elections.
This incident opens up a broader conversation about the vital role of a free press in safeguarding democracy. It invites hope that, with collective support, the principles of free speech will prevail in Palau and beyond, reinforcing a commitment to truth in journalism for the welfare of all citizens. It serves as a reminder of the essential function of the media in holding power to account and ensuring that citizens are informed.
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