The Fijian Media Association (FMA) has raised concerns over continued pressures on journalists, citing recent public comments by Government officials as part of a challenging media environment.
In its World Press Freedom Day 2026 statement, the Association pointed to remarks by Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya regarding what she described as “mal-information” and “misinformation” in coverage of the broken-down lift at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva.
The FMA said the comments were followed by a public call to end “doorstop-style” interviews — a move it says undermines established journalistic practices.
“Such a method of newsgathering is well-established in healthy democracies as a necessary part of holding officials accountable,” the statement said.
The Association warned that these developments reflect the kinds of pressures media organisations continue to face.
“These developments signal the kinds of pressures the media continues to be subjected to,” it stated.
Beyond these concerns, the FMA also highlighted broader challenges affecting journalists, including the growing impact of Fiji’s hard-drugs crisis.
“This adds a layer of complexity that journalists need to navigate, while continuing to uphold the values and ethics the industry aspires to,” the statement noted.
Despite the challenges, the FMA reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and supporting journalists.
“We reaffirm our commitment to advocating for press freedom and the protection of journalists’ rights in Fiji,” the Association said.
It called on all stakeholders — including Government and civil society — to work together to ensure a safe and supportive environment for media practitioners.
“Let us continue to champion the cause of press freedom… recognising that a free press is essential to a healthy democracy,” the statement added.
