The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) in Fiji has raised alarms over a troubling pattern of irresponsible online commentary directed at witnesses involved in active criminal cases. Nancy Tikoisuva, the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, has voiced concerns that such actions might not only impede the judicial process but could also be regarded as contempt of court. She stressed the harmful impact of provocative headlines, inflammatory content, and public attacks, particularly on social media platforms, which have the potential to intimidate witnesses and discourage them from coming forward.
While Tikoisuva acknowledged the significance of freedom of expression and media rights, she emphasized the critical need to exercise these freedoms responsibly, particularly during ongoing legal procedures. She urged the public, along with journalists and content creators, to adhere to essential principles such as the presumption of innocence and the protection of witness integrity. Furthermore, Tikoisuva advised ODPP staff against publicly commenting on active cases via social media to safeguard the criminal justice system from external influences.
These concerns are not isolated, as similar warnings have been expressed by other officials, including Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga. He highlighted the detrimental effects of social media commentary on judicial integrity, noting that such actions can undermine public confidence in the justice system. Turaga warned against conducting “parallel trials” on social media, as they might prejudice legal proceedings and infringe upon the rights of those involved.
The importance of responsible public discourse remains central to preserving the integrity of legal and governance frameworks. Digital platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for users to stay informed and express their opinions, but it is crucial to strike a balance between exercising freedom of expression and respecting legal processes. As Fiji continues to confront these challenges, nurturing an informed and respectful public dialogue is vital for maintaining trust in its judiciary and governance systems.