Veteran Tongan journalist Kalafi Moala has been elected as the new President of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), winning 22 out of 36 votes in a closely contested election that dethroned outgoing president Kora Nou from Papua New Guinea.
Leilani Reklai from Palau was elected as Vice President, receiving 29 votes, surpassing Iliesa Tora. The elections took place at the Okioki Mai Clifftop Cafe and Bar on the final day of the week-long PINA Media Summit, which featured extensive discussions on critical media issues, including press freedom, emerging technologies, and women’s roles in Pacific media.
This election brought a notable change in leadership dynamics, as three women now sit on the seven-member board, an increase from two in the previous term. Mr. Moala expressed his gratitude for the confidence bestowed upon him and acknowledged the contributions of outgoing president Kora Nou, emphasizing the importance of continuity for PINA’s growth.
“I accepted this nomination with reluctance,” Mr. Moala shared, “thinking there would be someone younger, perhaps a woman. But now that I’m here, I’ll only serve one term to enable fresh leadership.” He stressed the need for consistent leadership within PINA, suggesting that past presidents should continue to mentor their successors.
Mr. Moala identified his priorities for PINA, including strengthening relationships with media organizations in Samoa and Micronesia, citing the historical tensions between Fiji and Samoa and the necessity for reconciliation. “We need to build a closer relationship with Samoa. I’m committed to reaching out to these areas and uniting our members,” he stated.
He also emphasized the significance of engaging with diaspora media in countries like New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. “There are many more Tongans living outside of Tonga than there are within it,” he remarked, advocating for full integration of diaspora media outlets into PINA. He argued that they should no longer be seen as “associates” but as full members of the association.
In his farewell address, Mr. Nou expressed satisfaction with his tenure as PINA President, characterizing it as a time of personal and professional growth. “It’s been a challenging but rewarding experience,” he noted, thanking those who collaborated with him during his leadership. He also highlighted the ongoing challenges for Pacific media, particularly in safeguarding press freedom in the region.
As outgoing board members, including Mr. Nou, Mr. Tora, and Georgina Kekea, handed over their positions, Mr. Nou expressed his continued commitment to the cause, indicating that he would remain active in supporting the organization.
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 for Women in Media Fiji and Senior Journalist at MaiTV)