Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko says concerns about access to information and constitutional rights should be addressed through proper legal processes including the court system.
This was highlighted after fijivillage News Director Vijay Narayan raised concerns about delays in implementing key legislation, including the Access to Information Bill, which is provided for under both the 1997 and 2013 Constitutions but is yet to be passed by parliament.
The discussion took place during The University of Fiji's first ever Press Club that was hosted as part of the University's 21st anniversary celebrations at the Suva Central Campus.
Narayan highlights that there was a planned motion in parliament to withdraw the Access to Information Bill 2025, along with the Code of Conduct Bill 2025 and the Accountability and Transparency Bill 2025, however thankfully, this did not go ahead.
He pointed out the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in accessing information, noting that investigative reporting continues to be affected.
Fiji Media Association President and Fiji Sun Publisher, Rosi Doviverata says this is something that hinders reporting and limits the ability of people to observe and understand what is happening in the country.
She says this would provide a framework that allows journalists to confidently seek and request information, and it will also be available for everyone.
Meanwhile, Islands Business Publisher and former Fiji Times Editor-in-Chief Netani Rika says when people do not have access to information, it allows those in authority to influence public perception.
He says people are often more aware of what is happening in countries like Canada and Europe than what is happening locally.
Rika says journalists are constantly pursuing information, and if that information is available, it can be shared with the public.
However, he adds that when information is not accessible, it makes the work of journalists more difficult.
Following this, a student questioned the Parliament Speaker on what message should be taken to the public regarding access to information.
Responding to this, Jitoko clarified that his role remains neutral and non-political, stressing that he does not belong to any political party.
He says that where the Constitution guarantees certain rights, people can pursue avenues that allow those provisions to be interpreted in their favour.
Insert: Jitoko on rights 24th March
Jitoko also acknowledges concerns about self-censorship and past experiences under previous administrations. However, he encouraged individuals not to hold back from asserting their rights.
He adds that recognising rights is not enough, and more effort is needed to ensure those rights are properly implemented.
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