14 Jul 2015

Vanuatu opposition critical of government's media focus

7:19 am on 14 July 2015

The Vanuatu Opposition is calling on the Government to focus on political reform instead of trying to control the media.

A nightly press briefing at the NDMO head office in Port Vila. The international media were very critical of the delays in aid distribution.

Vanuatu's media has been threatened by Government talk of regulation, following negative reporting of the political upheaval that has seen numerous motions of no confidence and changes of government. Photo: RNZI / Koroi Hawkins

The newly formed Sato Kilman led government is making stricter media laws a priority after weeks of heavy public criticism around political instability in the country.

But the Opposition say laws to promote stability and integrity in politics would be more beneficial for the country.

And it says more responsible reporting might be better achieved if the Right to Information Bill was enacted.

The Opposition says the previous government had already consulted on the issue and would ensure journalists got access to accurate facts and figures for their reporting.