PER necessary for united Fiji-PM

The Prime Minister has revealed that the implementation of the Public Emergency Regulation is necessary to achieve a united Fiji.

While opening the Asia Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development General Conference in Denarau, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said divisive policies and the past media culture was not conducive to national unity and progress.

Bainimarama told the broadcasters and media personnel from the Asia Pacific region that the PER is merely a temporary measure, which seeks to provide a stable socio-political platform that is conducive for the government's nation building initiatives to take place.

He said the government wants a Fiji where opportunities are equally available to the different ethnic groups that make Fiji what it is.

He then briefed the broadcasters that the next elections will be held in 2014 after Fiji has a modern day constitution.

The Prime Minister said the government also strongly believes in media freedom and freedom of expression.

However he said media freedom is not absolute and the media must exercise this freedom and right to express oneself with greater responsibility.

Bainimarama said the media must ensure that their work does not impact negatively on the rights of others or the stability and wellbeing of the nation.