Debate and journalists
Let’s talk it out
THE banner headline in The Fiji Times (3/5) is “Let’s Talk It Out” Mahendra Chaudhry’s challenge to the A-G to have a public debate. This seems to be an excellent idea. After all this is what is needed for the different political parties to tell the public why they feel that they are the best one to lead the country.
FijiFirst has been doing a good job over the past 12 years that I have seen since moving back from the US. So, I am puzzled about why the A-G is reluctant to do it. Given his confident manner, his eloquence and his solid understanding of the politics in Fiji, one would think that he would be more than happy to pick up the glove.
Mr Chaudhry has said that he has been asking the A-G for a public debate “for a long time” but claims that the A-G “doesn’t want to face the truth”.
So now my curious mind is perked up — how long is the long time Mr Chaudhry is talking about and what is the truth the A-G does not want to face? I find it hard to believe as the A-G has been very vocal about his strong stance against lasulasu.
Public debates happen routinely in all democratic countries where candidates can espouse their plans for the next four years.
I also feel that there should be talk shows — like the AINAA program — just for the elections where the spokesperson from each party is interviewed by the host so that the general public can evaluate who the best candidate is.
I do have a major gripe against the A-G’s office. Whenever a question is sent to the office, there is a statement in the press that the question is unanswered.
I believe that is very unprofessional and impolite — and reflects a nonchalant and arrogant attitude.
There should be a press secretary to answer the questions promptly and honestly.
ARVIND MANI
Nadi
Water leaks from this fire hydrant at the Government Buildings compound in Suva.
Be ‘fearless’!
I THANK The Fiji Times for giving much prominence to World Press Freedom Day. The editor-in-chief had for the past three days penned three solid editorials on the significance of World Press Freedom. From his editorial (FT 04/05), it was disturbing to read that threats to the freedom of journalists and media workers were growing.
It was disturbing to read that journalists worked under great stress and scrutiny, largely under the harsh glare and spotlight of a critical and often unforgiving public.
Furthermore, reports surfaced that female journalists faced shame and stigma and they were prime targets of certain male athletes, male sports officials and male sports fans.
Journalists, who are on the frontline, are expected to report on critical issues in a neutral way as they are accountable
Sto the public because of the information they disseminate.
Professor Biman Prasad urged journalists to be ‘fearless, amplify the truth and be the voice of the people’ (FT 04/05). He added that it was critically important for the media to be impartial and amplify the voice of the people without feat, especially in an election year.
Professor Shaista Shameem stated that freedom of the media was part of the fundamental right of people to seek, impart and receive information (FT 04/05). I believe we must respect the work of journalists and allow them to work independently. Bulldozing our way through and interfering in their work will defeat the purpose of a free, authentic and independent media.
By the way, congratulations on the launching of the Fijian Press Club logo, as this was long overdue! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Nadawa, Nasinu