Shireen Lata
SUVA: The Fiji government recognises that the media plays an integral role in ensuring good governance and sustainable development, says Information Permanent Secretary Sharon Smith-Johns.
However, Smith-Johns says this means a responsible and non-partisan press prepared to look at all points of view, not reflecting the personal agendas and prejudices of journalists and media organisations.
Writing in the state newsletter Fiji Focus, the permanent secretary says the Fiji government believes in the free flow of information and giving accurate and timely responses to ensure their message is well understood.
She says this is part of the government’s overall policy of "openness, inclusiveness and accountability".
However, Smith-Johns warns that her ministry will not stand those who "manipulate and distort the truth" to satisfy personal agendas and hurt
the economy of Fiji.
She pointed in particular to what she calls a "hostile media campaign" against Fiji by a number of Australian media organisations saying they lacked an understanding of the progress the country has made so far. - Fiji Broadcasting Corporation/Pacific Media Watch
Pacific Media Watch
