CONCERNS over social media misuse ahead of the elections were raised in Parliament with Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya, warning that “the level of irresponsibility is quite high”.
He asked Information Minister Lynda Tabuya on whether the Government was considering amendments to the legislation, citing the widespread use of social media and the need for its proper regulation.
“It should be used properly,” he said.
He suggested strengthening the laws and the Office of the Commissioner to ensure better oversight.
Ms Tabuya responded that discussions were already underway to review the Online Safety Act 2018.
“They are already underway with reviewing and strengthening the laws,” she said.
She explained that the Office of the Attorney-General, the Law Reform Commission and the Online Safety Commission are working together, with appointed commissioners tasked to speed up the process.
She noted an appeal was also made for prosecutorial powers to be granted under the proposed reforms, with concerns raised that the Cybercrime Unit within the Fiji Police Force is managing both investigative and prosecutorial duties and is under significant strain.
She said the reforms were expected to be brought forward before the end of this year.
Ms Tabuya stressed the need for stronger enforcement, adding that increasing complaints daily and delays in removing harmful content show the urgency for change.
“We do need to strengthen the law and give the Online Safety Commission more teeth.”
