The Fijian Media Association has again called for police to step up security outside courthouses, following yet another violent attack on a journalist.
FBC senior journalist Apenisa Waqairadovu sustained injuries to his arms and hands after being assaulted by Sairusi Ceinaturaga, who had just been convicted of murdering his partner’s one‑year‑old child.
Despite being handcuffed, Ceinaturaga managed to outrun the police officer escorting him and chased Waqairadovu, threatening him, hurling abuse, and ultimately pushing him down the courthouse stairs.
“This has been happening far too often to journalists outside the courtroom, and we have seen no improvement in security despite repeated calls for stronger protection,” the FMA stated.
The association highlighted that this is not an isolated incident, recalling that in August another convicted murderer, Tevita Kapawale, attempted to attack journalists outside the courthouse.
“Journalists face physical threats every year while covering court cases, and the Fiji Police Force’s ongoing failure to provide adequate protection is unacceptable,” the FMA added.
The association emphasized that the media plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and accountability within Fiji’s justice system, and that journalists must be able to report freely on matters of public interest without fear of violence or intimidation.
