The Ministry of Policing slammed the violent attack on Fiji Broadcasting Corporation senior journalist Apenisa Waqairadovu near the courthouse and is calling for police to give better protection to journalists.
Minister Ioane Naivalurua issued a statement saying the incident was wrong and showed ongoing problems with courthouse security.
“No journalist in Fiji should ever be assaulted, intimidated, or obstructed while lawfully carrying out their work,” Naivalurua said.
He stressed that the Fiji Police Force has both a legal and moral duty to protect all citizens, including members of the media who play a vital role in democracy.
The Minister directed the Commissioner of Police to increase police presence outside court premises, introduce stricter crowd-control and prisoner-movement protocols, and ensure escort officers are properly trained in risk assessment.
“Journalists must be able to carry out their work freely, safely, and without fear of harassment, intimidation, or injury. When journalists are attacked, it is an attack on Fiji’s democracy and on the public’s right to know,” Naivalurua said.
The Ministry also acknowledged concerns raised by the Fiji Media Association (FMA), which has repeatedly called for stronger security measures.
Naivalurua emphasized that accountability will be enforced for any police negligence and assured the public that the safety of journalists is “non-negotiable.”
“The Ministry will ensure that the Fiji Police Force takes all necessary actions to safeguard media personnel and restore public confidence in security at our courthouses,” he said.
