Times Welcomes Media Decree Dialogue

Times Welcomes Media Decree Dialogue

SUVA (Fiji Times Online/Pacific Media Watch): Though he has publicly confirmed that a proposed decree to control media in Fiji is in its final stages, Communications Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum would not be drawn on whether this would replace the Public Emergency Regulation 2009.

Sayed-Khaiyum, who also holds the justice portfolio, said: "We will deal with that later".

When asked what the contents of the media decree would deal with, Sayed-Khaiyum said: "We will deal with that later".

Fiji Times managing director and publisher Anne Fussell said the newspaper assumed the Bainimarama administration would consult widely with the media, including the Fiji Times, prior to the implementation of any decree.

"We would welcome that dialogue," she said.

"We are very supportive of responsible journalism which we believe includes presenting all sides of any issue so that the people of Fiji can consider issues affecting them armed with as much information as possible."

News of the media laws were made public on Thursday with Sayed-Khaiyum saying everyone would become responsible for their own good.

Ministry of Information Permanent Secretary Lieutenant Colonel Neumi Leweni had publicly said the legislation was put together by senior government officials in consultation with the Office of the Prime Minister.

ENDS

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