Fiji’s Minister for Policing and Communications, Ioane Naivalurua, has mandated immediate security enhancements across all courthouse premises following a violent assault on journalist Apenisa Waqaidrovu outside a courthouse on Monday. He condemned the incident as “unacceptable” and highlighted its implications as a direct threat to democracy.
Naivalurua stated that this attack is part of a troubling trend, with media personnel frequently facing various forms of intimidation while covering courtroom proceedings. He noted that journalists have been chased, threatened, verbally abused, and even had their equipment damaged by individuals exiting the courts.
“This unacceptable incident follows several previous occasions in which media personnel have faced harassment,” he remarked, emphasizing that no journalist in Fiji should have to endure assault or intimidation while performing their duties. He reiterated that the Fiji Police Force holds both a legal and moral duty to safeguard media workers and criticized ongoing security shortcomings at courthouses.
The Minister issued directives to the Commissioner of Police, requiring immediate action to enhance the safety of journalists. Key measures include boosting police presence around court venues, establishing effective crowd-control and prisoner-movement protocols to minimize physical contact between offenders and media, ensuring court escort officers are well-informed about risks, and holding accountable any officers whose inaction leads to such violent incidents.
Naivalurua insisted that journalist safety is paramount, and pointed out that assaults on the media undermine the public’s right to information. He affirmed the vital role of a free press, stating, “A free press is a pillar of good governance, public accountability, and national transparency. When journalists are attacked, it is an attack on Fiji’s democracy and on the public’s right to know.”
The Ministry also expressed solidarity with the Fiji Media Association (FMA), aligning with their concerns over the necessity for improved police standards and discipline. The Ministry acknowledges the importance of these reported incidents and commits to ensuring that they do not recur.
In closing, Naivalurua placed the onus on police leadership to address these security issues effectively. He asserted, “The safety of our journalists is non-negotiable. The Ministry will make sure that the Fiji Police Force takes all necessary actions to protect media personnel and restore public trust in security at our court facilities.”