The Media Industry Development Authority wants to ensure the media has access and reports in a credible, balanced and accurate manner as we head into the election period.

MIDA Chairperson Ashwin Raj says election plays an integral role in terms of audit to ensure that if there are anomalies and concerns raised by the public, the media is able to convey that accurately.

He says the media is an important tool between the public and the institutions of power.

" In 2014 there were close to 450 media personnel involved in the covering of elections and we certainly hope that this will be the case this year too. We’re working very closely with the Fijian Election Office in ensuring that the registration and accreditation of all media is complete. We’re going to be sending out invitations as well and advertise widely in the mainstream media."

The MIDA Chair is calling and encouraging all journalists and local media houses to be accredited to cover the 2018 General Election.

Raj says foreign media personnel’s who wish to cover the national poll must also ensure they are accredited.