Infant newspaper makes it big
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019 was a special, joyous, momentous and a proud day for The Fiji Times as we celebrated 150 years from the day George Littleton Griffiths founded the newspaper in Levuka on September 4, 1869. Since then The Fiji Times is proud to be Fiji’s oldest newspaper, documenting history over the decades.
Today it is apt sharing the principles that guided this infant newspaper back in 1869. These principles were stated by the founder, G.L. Griffiths, in the first issue.
“The only promise that we can make is that we shall watch the times and try to make our paper a public good; a practical, useful and honest medium for the support of honour, truth and right. We have no party interest to serve and are open upon all occasions for free discussion, subject only to the usual restrictions of a free press.”
Since then it is very much evident in the role The Fiji Times has played in aiding the development of our country.
Perhaps the editorial on November 27, 1958 would serve as an apt reminder for us all of the important role we can play in nation-building.
Part of it said: “In dual fashion The Fiji Times is part of the history of Fiji. The Fiji Times is both free and independent... our columns are a platform for the discussion of any topic which will help Fiji’s citizens to think out and follow the way of true progress for the good of all in Fiji.
“The Fiji Times is both free and independent. We are governed and influenced by neither prejudice nor fear. Our voice will always be raised against injustice or foolishness to the excess of ‘brief authority’ and our columns are a platform for discussion of any type which will help Fiji’s citizens (including ourselves) to think out and follow the way of true progress for the good of all in Fiji.”
For now and going forward, sleep assured that we are firmly committed to continue giving you news that is fair, just, balanced and honest and helping our country move forward. We are very pro Fiji and living proof of this is our 150-year record as recorders of history in Fiji.
I take this opportunity to acknowledge all our loyal readers and advertisers who have supported and stood by us over the years, and moreso believing and trusting us and for this, our commitment is to make sure the integrity of The Fiji Times is not blemished during our stewardship, which is a promise of ours which is so relevant to the values and ethos of The Fiji Times. Albeit we are 150 years old today, it doesn’t mean we will rest on our laurels, and thank you for believing in The Fiji Times.
The Fiji Times is both free and independent. We are governed and influenced by neither prejudice nor fear.
– Editorial comment