SUVA (Pacific Media Watch / Radio Australia): University of the South Pacific journalism academic Pat Craddock says a military decree is "stifling debate" in Fiji.
Craddock spoke to Radio Australia, saying it was highly restrictive to have a decree preventing non-profit organisations - which receive any funding from overseas - from engaging in political debate.
"It is putting a big chain around the NGOs" Craddock said. The fine for contravening the decree is US$50,000, or 10 years in prison, or both.
"It is scaring the hell out of people" said Craddock.
Because of the decree, one NGO has already cancelled a debate that had been planned for Media Freedom Day at USP on May 3.
The decree says:
"115.—(1) Following the announcement of the date of the election, it shall be unlawful for any person, entity or organisation (including any person employed or engaged by any such person, entity or organisation) that receives any funding or assistance from a foreign government, inter-governmental or non-governmental organisation or multilateral agency to engage in, participate in or conduct any campaign (including organising debates, public forum, meetings, interviews, panel discussions, or publishing any material) that is related to the election or any election issue or matter.
(2) It shall be unlawful for any person, entity or organisation (including any person employed or engaged by any such person, entity or organisation) to engage in, or to undertake any act which, under the Constitution or under this Decree, is given to or assigned to the Electoral Commission or the Supervisor, unless authorised in writing by the Electoral Commission or the Supervisor".
Listen to Pat Craddock
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