Veteran Tongan journalist Kalafi Moala has been elected as the new President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), winning 22 of 36 votes in a competitive election that unseated the outgoing president, Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea.
Leilani Reklai from Palau has been appointed as Vice President, securing 29 votes and defeating Iliesa Tora. The elections took place at the picturesque Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar on the last day of the week-long PINA Media Summit, which featured important discussions on media issues such as press freedom, the impact of emerging technologies, and the role of women in the Pacific media landscape.
A notable outcome of the elections was the increased representation of women on the board, with three females now occupying seats on the seven-member board, an increase from two in the previous term. Moala expressed his appreciation for the confidence shown in him and praised the contributions of the outgoing president, Kora Nou, highlighting the importance of continuity for PINA’s success.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” Moala said, “thinking there would be someone younger, perhaps a woman. But now that I’m here, I’ll only serve one term to allow for fresh leadership.” He emphasized the necessity of maintaining consistent leadership within PINA, proposing a model where previous presidents can provide guidance to their successors.
Moala outlined his vision for PINA, emphasizing the importance of fostering stronger relationships with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia. He addressed the historical tensions between Fiji and Samoa, advocating for reconciliation and collaboration.
“We need to build a closer relationship with Samoa. I’m committed to going to these areas, pulling in those members to stand with us,” he stated. Additionally, he recognized the significant role of diaspora media in countries like New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, stressing the need for full integration of these outlets into PINA. “There are far more Tongans outside of Tonga than in Tonga,” he remarked, advising that the term “associates” be replaced with “full members.”
In his farewell address, Kora Nou reflected on his tenure as PINA President without regrets, describing it as enriching both personally and professionally. “It’s been a challenging but rewarding experience,” Nou stated, thanking colleagues who supported him during his time in office. He also pointed out the ongoing struggles faced by Pacific media in preserving press freedom across the region.
“As a regional media, we play a crucial role in maintaining free press, and I hope the new board continues to address these collective issues,” he added. As the outgoing board members, including Nou, Tora, and Georgina Kekea, stepped down, Nou expressed optimism about the future leadership.
“I remain committed to the cause, even if I’m no longer President. I’ll still be around to help where I can,” he assured.
The newly elected PINA board members include:
– 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.