The National Federation Party says the detention of three Islands Business Magazine journalists for alleged Public Order Act offences is deeply concerning.
NFP President – Pio Tikoduadua has questioned how a news story about a magistrate’s appointment could cause public alarm.
He argues if a news media report is wrong, then there are legal remedies available against the publisher as opposed to detention.
Meanwhile the Media Industry Development Authority Chairperson Ashwin Raj says journalists need to ensure their stories are fair, balanced and accurate.
“I think it’s important that journalists must take responsibility for the fact that when you publish something which impinges institutions and individuals and in this case allegedly casting aspersions on the independence of the judiciary, there are serious consequences.”
The Fijian Media Association is expected to comment on the issue soon.
The three are alleged to have breached section 15 of the Public Order Act which states the malicious fabrication or knowingly spread abroad or publish whether by writing or by word of mouth or otherwise, any false news or false report tending to create or foster public alarm, public anxiety or disaffection or to result in the detriment of the public is guilty of an offense.
