Mounting concern over Fiji media law overhaul
Updated
A proposal by Fiji's interim Government for a major overhaul of the country's media laws has attracted concern from both local journalists and international media organisations.
The Government says a single law to replace all laws that currently deal with the media will improve transparency and access to information.
Media advocates disagree.
Fiji Times editor Netani Rike says "they are trying to beat us over the head with this new legislation".
Former International Federation of Journalists President Christopher Warren says this could be more than an interim measure.
"We are seeing the threatened entrenchment of procedures that mean if there is an improvement in the democratic situation in Fiji, the media will continue to be under pressure," he says.
The Government says it has no interest in controlling the media and will consult with the country's Media Council and other stakeholders in formulating the new law.
