Journalists under attack. Who’s protecting them?

Yesterday’s sentencing of killer, Tevita Kapawale to life imprisonment for the brutal murders of five fishing crew members marked a moment of justice for grieving families. But it also exposed a troubling and recurring issue: the safety of journalists and photographers while doing their jobs.

As Kapawale was escorted from the courtroom to the transporting vehicle, he attempted to assault a female journalist, a photographer, and two male journalists, right in front of police officers.

These media workers were simply performing their duty to inform the public about court proceedings. The fact that such an attack occurred in a controlled environment like the High Court premises is alarming.  

But this is not an isolated incident. Journalists, videographers and photographers in Fiji have repeatedly faced physical and verbal threats while covering court cases and even public events.

What’s more concerning is the response from law enforcement.  Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu  blamed the reporters for ‘getting too close’ to the accused.

This deflection is not only dismissive, it’s dangerous. It shifts accountability away from those tasked with maintaining order and protecting all citizens, including members of the media. 

Police have a duty to protect everyone. If safety can not be guaranteed at court premises, what hope is there in more volatile environments? Journalists have a right to report on public proceedings without fear.

These are not privileges, they are pillars of democracy. Journalists are not intruders; they are watchdogs, storytellers, and public servants who hold power to account.

The Fijian Media Association (FMA) has condemned the incident and demanded urgent action. Sadly, this is not the first time journalists have faced physical threats while covering court cases. 

FMA general secretary Stanley Simpson said the Fiji Police Force's repeated failure to provide adequate security for media personnel is unacceptable. "The media plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability in our justice system. Journalists have the right to report on matters of public interest without fear of violence or intimidation.”

The association demands the Fiji Police Force immediately implement proper security protocols for court proceedings, including secure perimeters during prisoner transport and adequate police presence to protect journalists from violent offenders.

Fiji’s National Security Strategy 2025–2029 that the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka launched yesterday rightly emphasises human rights, dignity, and resilience. These values must extend to media workers who are often 'first respondents' in disaster and crisis.

Journalists should not have to choose between doing their job and staying safe. Their protection is not optional. It is essential.

Feedback: caroline.ratucadra@fijisun.com.fj