The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) is advocating for the protection of freedom of expression and press freedom throughout the Pacific region. This initiative comes in response to a defamation lawsuit filed against Palau’s national newspaper, Island Times Palau, by Surangel Whipps Sr., the father of Palau’s President, Surangel Whipps Jr.
The lawsuit targets the newspaper’s editor, Leilani Reklai, and raises concerns from both the Palau Media Council and the Pacific Freedom Forum about media freedom in Palau. Following the lawsuit’s filing on October 29, President Whipps Jr. commented that Island Times continues to distribute what he terms as “political propaganda” that is not accurate.
PINA has voiced strong support for Reklai, with President Kalafi Moala emphasizing the vital role of the media in safeguarding democracy. He stated, “We are calling for immediate freedom, not just in Palau, but throughout the Pacific,” highlighting ongoing challenges faced regarding freedom of speech and press in various countries. Moala expressed concern about intimidation tactics employed against the media, particularly in Palau.
In a letter sent to the Palau President’s office, PINA reiterated its stance, aligning freedom of speech with democratic principles and emphasizing the importance of these values, especially as Palauans headed to the polls recently.
This situation underscores the critical importance of an independent media as a pillar of democracy. It illustrates a larger regional challenge where press freedoms are contested, but also showcases the determination of organizations like PINA to advocate for journalistic integrity and the protection of press freedoms.
In the context of ongoing efforts for reform, there is hope that such international attention can lead to stronger protections for media outlets and encourage greater accountability from those in power.
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