AS the Fijian media celebrates World Press Freedom Day today, Opposition Leader Ro
Teimumu Kepa has called on Government to consider the review of the Media Industry Development Authority Act.In a statement yesterday, Ro Teimumu paid tribute to individuals and organisations who had continued to contribute towards the evolution of the freedom of the press and saluted journalists who had made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the freedom of the press.
She said the role of the media, the status of the press and the need to create a conducive atmosphere for the freedom of the press to reach the goals of accountability, good governance, transparency, sound leadership and a society built on
universal and traditional values cannot be ignored.
“People and governments have at one point or another had their moments of highs and lows with the press and given the varied opinions that exist, this is likely to continue which is a good sign for the evolution of the culture of human rights and democracy,” she said.
“However, it is important to ensure that there is professional journalism and freedom
for the media to allow them the scope to create meaningful discussions and pave the way to a knowledge-based society. It is time that we set the press free in order to set ourselves, our future generations and our country free.”
