Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj has raised serious concerns in Parliament about the government’s handling of public service broadcasting (PSB) grants, suggesting that the current administration is utilizing these funds as a political instrument rather than adhering to commitments of transparency. Maharaj criticized the inconsistency in PSB funding management by the government and the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), which he claims mirrors tactics previously opposed by the ruling party.
During a recent parliamentary session, Maharaj articulated his position, stating, “The grant issue was used as a campaign tool by this government.” He pointed out that during their time in opposition, members of the ruling party advocated for treating PSB funding as a non-revenue grant to ensure accurate reflection of FBC’s financial standing. However, he contended that the current financial report indicates otherwise, as funding is still reported as income despite recent cuts.
Highlighting a specific example, Maharaj mentioned the government’s claim of achieving a profit of $555,000 for 2024, despite implementing a significant 40 percent reduction in PSB fees. He argued that this profit is touted as an achievement by a management team that is following the same revenue-recognition practices they once opposed.
Additionally, Maharaj expressed concern over the disparities in funding distribution, questioning why established media entities continue to benefit from government support while smaller, independent platforms such as Duavata News and RonCast face ongoing financial challenges. He called upon the new Minister for Finance to ensure equitable allocation of taxpayer money to foster a more competitive media landscape that also supports emerging media entrepreneurs.
This call for scrutiny arises amidst a broader initiative by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who recently announced an additional $3.1 million in PSB grants intended for various media organizations, reflecting a shift from exclusive funding for the FBC. Rabuka emphasized that such movements are aimed at fostering a competitive media environment that includes diverse content providers, ultimately improving the quality of broadcasting in Fiji.
The opposition’s plea for transparency and fair funding is particularly pertinent in the context of the government’s broader strategy to enhance the media landscape through inclusivity. This ongoing dialogue about funding and fairness in media support signifies a vital moment for Fijian democracy, where balanced governance and transparency are key to rebuilding public trust and ensuring access to accurate and diverse information for all citizens.