Actions by the National Federation Party (NFP) to deny certain media organisations like the Fiji Sun from attending their press conferences is unacceptable.

This was the statement by the Fijian Media Association (FMA) while responding to concerns raised to them on the issue of the NFP being selective on media organisations to cover their press events.

The issue was first brought to  the attention of the Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem in a press conference on Wednesday.

NFP general secretary Seini Nabou claimed that the Fiji Sun was a propaganda arm of the FijiFirst Party, and that the NFP would never talk to the newspaper.

Mr Saneem said the matter was of great concern and that all political parties must give equal access to all media organisations.

The FMA said this raised concern and question marks about the NFP’s commitment to media freedom and recognising that the media provides for different perspectives and alternative views on issues and policies.

The FMA added that political parties and Government cannot preach media freedom but practise something else.

“For a free and fair election and for a thriving democratic society the media must be given access to all political parties’ press conferences and events,” the FMA added.

Story by: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj