Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya says her proposal to have the Online Safety Commission (OSC) administered under her ministry is aimed at improving resources, efficiency, and support for victims and not undermining the body’s independence.
She said in a social media post each government ministry administers laws and budgets for certain independent institutions, citing examples such as the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission under the Attorney-General’s office, FICAC under the Attorney-General, the FCCC under the Ministry of Trade, and the Accident Compensation Commission under the Ministry for Justice.
“In each of these cases, the government provides funding and legal administration, but does not interfere with their day-to-day work. The same principle applies here,” she said.
The minister explained that the Ministry of Information already deals with misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation, with related offences covered in the Online Safety Act.
She said this was why she had lobbied for the OSC to be placed under her ministry’s administrative responsibility for it to be better resourced, speed up processes, and provide faster help for victims.
Ms Tabuya added that she had discussed the move with Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who agreed in principle, noting that the Ministry of Communications deals with telecom regulation, data, consumer protection, and computer-related fraud.
She assured the public that the OSC’s independence in investigating and deciding cases would remain protected by law, and that government would not interfere in its decisions.
“I respect the concerns raised about independence, and I will ensure that any change is done transparently, with public consultation and safeguards in place.”
“My goal is simple: to give the OSC the strength and tools to protect Fijians online, without compromising its impartiality.”