Media organizations cannot be held liable for publication of any statements made only by the Prime Minister or any Minister of government, whether in their official or personal capacity.

The amendment decree further stated that no court, tribunal, commission or any other adjudicating body shall have the jurisdiction to accept, hear, determine or in any way entertain any challenge at law, in relation to the statements made by the Prime Minister or ministers.

No one can seek compensation or claim for damages or ask to be granted remedy in relation to any comments made by the Prime Minister or government ministers in their official or personal capacity.

Media organisations that broadcast or print these statements have also been given legal immunity under the decree.

This new law is now in effect as Fijivillage has received confirmation that the State Proceedings Amendment Decree was gazetted by President on the 25th of last month.

A government statement said the decree is consistent with the Parliamentary Privilege as was applicable in Fiji and which is applicable in countries throughout the Commonwealth.

However this goes further by protecting media organizations.

The government said the law is intended to facilitate open and frank discussions between the government, the public and stakeholders in the lead up to Fiji’s parliamentary elections.

The decree will expire upon the date when a new parliament is convened which will have its usual privileges for statements made by parliamentarians.

 
Parliamentary privilege is a legal immunity enjoyed by members of certain legislatures, in which legislators are granted protection against civil or criminal liability for actions done or statements made.

A similar mechanism is known as parliamentary immunity.


Story by: Vijay Narayan