The media has been restricted from entering the State House premises to cover the i-reguregu as part of the State Funeral of the late former President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau since yesterday.
fijivillage News has been trying to get access since yesterday knowing that the norm as part of a State Funeral is for the media to have access to this national event and to inform the people of the country.
In a media briefing last Friday, the media was assured of access by the Permanent Secretary for Defence, Mason Smith.
He had said that they will ensure there are no unnecessary restrictions.
However the Ministry of Information confirmed to us over the weekend that only they have been allowed to be present at State House, and other media are not allowed.
We continue to ask the Ministry of Information and Ministry of Defence in the interest of the people of this country.
The Ministry of Information has referred all queries to State House.
fijivillage News has sent a request to President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for the media to be allowed access to cover the State Funeral as it is of national interest.
We are awaiting a response.
