Opposition Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj has raised urgent concerns regarding the government’s management of public service broadcasting (PSB) grants, alleging that these funds are being used as a political tool instead of upholding commitments to transparency. Maharaj criticized the inconsistency in the handling of PSB funding by the government and the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), asserting that their current practices contradict the ruling party’s previous stance when in opposition.
In a recent parliamentary session, Maharaj stated, “The grant issue was used as a campaign tool by this government,” highlighting the contrast between past and present approaches to PSB funding. He noted that while in opposition, members of the ruling party had argued for the treatment of PSB funding as non-revenue grants to provide a clear view of FBC’s financial report, the current administration continues to categorize these funds as income, despite having recently implemented significant funding cuts.
Maharaj pointed to a particular example where the government claims to forecast a profit of $555,000 for 2024, despite a drastic 40 percent reduction in PSB fees. He argued that this claimed profit is an accomplishment touted by a management team that is employing the same revenue-recognition practices they previously challenged.
Furthermore, Maharaj expressed concerns over inequities in the distribution of funding, highlighting that long-established media entities continue to benefit while smaller independent outlets like Duavata News and RonCast struggle financially. He urged the new Minister for Finance to ensure that taxpayer money is allocated fairly to create a more competitive media environment that supports emerging media entrepreneurs.
These concerns come in the wake of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s announcement of an additional $3.1 million in PSB grants for various media organizations, representing a shift towards more inclusive funding beyond just the FBC. Rabuka has emphasized that this initiative aims to cultivate a competitive media landscape, ultimately enhancing the quality of broadcasting in Fiji.
The opposition’s call for transparency and equitable funding is timely amid the government’s broader goals to diversify media representation and support. This ongoing discussion regarding fair funding practices is crucial for strengthening Fijian democracy, where open governance and transparency are essential in rebuilding public trust and ensuring that citizens have access to accurate and diverse information.