Fake news ‘extremely concerning': PM

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has denounced the rise of fake news in Fiji, calling it a dangerous threat to public trust and professional integrity, especially in the lead-up to the 2026 General Election.

“It is a fraud. It is fraud and it’s bad for us to do that,” Mr Rabuka said in a recent public statement. “Because once I find that out, I can refuse to speak to anybody. How do I know they are genuine? It’s dangerous to the profession.”

The Prime Minister’s remarks come amid a growing wave of fabricated content spreading across social media platforms, much of it masquerading as legitimate news reports.

While his office has not issued an official clarification of his stance, the Online Safety Commission acknowledged the Prime Minister’s concerns.

“We are aware about the statement that has been posted on the Prime Minister’s social media page however, we are not able to elaborate on the stance of the Prime Minister as that is something which the Office of the Prime Minister may be able to do,” the online commission said.

Authorities warn that the proliferation of false information online is not just an electoral concern it poses broader risks to societal cohesion and individual safety.

“The fake news and digital misinformation can mislead the people and can also cause harm to individuals,” the Commission said.

Fiji Police Force Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu echoed the concern, describing the spread of fake news as “extremely concerning,” especially as users unknowingly share doctored content designed to provoke outrage and division.

“Social media has changed the way we interact and not for the better always,” Mr Tudravu said.

“Users must take time to carefully distinguish between accurate information and fake news before sharing.”

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj