Elections and media
Poll manifestos
SOON we’ll be hearing some mouthwatering poll manifestos that will woo voters during the upcoming General Election.
I hereby present my own political manifesto for you to consider.
I will apply my search for truth to political issues, and not allow any party or political leader to unduly influence my values or my vote.
I will be critical of political strategies that tell me what to think in order to increase the power of a particular party.
I will question what the media tells me, and be aware of their opportunistic, sensationalistic priorities that are ruining both politics and culture today.
I will examine political statements for what they are not saying, and for what they are meant to steer our attention away from.
I will reject clichés and political rhetoric that attempt to stop me from thinking beyond them, no matter how comfortable they feel.
I will take responsibility for my own political choices, and not blindly follow those of my parents, friends or advocacy groups.
I will support political leadership only so long as it represents what is good, and performs its duty honourably.
I do not expect perfection from a leader, but will actively condemn hypocrisy, dishonesty, manipulation of the issues, nationalistic creeds that try to shape my opinions, and “patriotic” rhetoric that tells me to stop thinking and fall in line.
Such oppressive tactics oppose everything that Western freedom and democracy is all about.
I will write letters to the editor, send opinions to my representatives, and positively articulate my opinions — with a constant sense of courtesy and perseverance.
God bless Fiji.
WISE MUAVONO
Balawa, Lautoka
Fijian Elections Office polling officers and agents assist voters at the Vuci Methodist School polling station in Nausori on Wednesday, November 14, 2018.
World Press Freedom Day
WORLD Press Freedom Day is annually observed on May 3 to inform the international community that freedom of the press and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights.
This day reminds people that many journalists brave death or face jail to bring daily news to the public.
It is an opportunity to: Celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom;
Assess the state of press freedom throughout the world; Defend the media from attacks on their independence; And pay tribute to journalists
who have lost their lives in the line of duty
Our daily newspaper is much more effective and updates all Fijians within Pacific nations with local, news and world coverage.
Our readers rely on journalists, despite difficulties they face to bring the authentic content of news and updates. During this COVID-19 pandemic — the brave journalists are doing a much greater job to deliver original and true news. I salute you all.
“A journalist who doesn’t bring a camera is like a warrior who doesn’t carry a sword.” Quote by Lucio Tan.
Wishing all journalists well for their perseverance and hard work. NEELZ SINGH
Lami
TEIMUMU MOCE Suva
ELENOA NAITUKU Suva
I THINK the team needs to work on their set pieces and support running lines. FILIMONI DROTINI
Suva