BY JOY OFASIA
UNDP Programme Specialist for Inclusive Governance and Economic Growth, Solomon Kalu highlighted that media plays a critical role in ensuring citizens have access to reliable information to make informed decisions.
Mr Kalu highlighted this in his speech during the one-day Media, Elections and Democratic Governance Dialogue held at the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.
He said the importance of a free, professional and responsible media in strengthening democracy, promoting accountability and building public trust in democratic institutions, particularly during elections.
The dialogue, held under the theme “Strengthening Public Trust, Accountability and Civic Participation,” brings together electoral management bodies, civil society representatives, emerging journalists and academia.
Kalu said elections are more than a democratic exercise, as they provide an opportunity for citizens to shape the future of their nation.
He also said the strength of democracy depends not only on how votes are cast, but also on how people access information, engage in dialogue and build trust in democratic institutions.
“A free, professional, and responsible media does more than report events media does more than report events. It informs citizens, amplifies diverse voices, promotes accountability, and helps societies navigate change with confidence and understanding,” Kalu said.
He also highlighted the growing influence of social media, noting that while digital platforms have created greater opportunities for people to connect and participate in public life, they also bring responsibilities around truth, integrity and responsible communication.
Kalu said the choices made by governments, media professionals, civil society and citizens would determine whether information becomes a force that divides communities or strengthens democracy.
He called for collective efforts to promote peaceful, credible and inclusive elections, alongside independent and responsible media and digital spaces that encourage informed dialogue, mutual respect and national unity.
He also said that journalists, citizens, leaders and institutions all have a role to play in protecting democratic values.
“Every journalist who verifies a fact, every citizen who chooses truth over rumour, every leader who upholds integrity, and every institution that defends democratic values contributes to a stronger and more resilient democracy,” he said.
The dialogue provides an opportunity for participants to discuss the relationship between media, elections and democratic governance, with a focus on strengthening public trust, accountability and civic participation in Solomon Islands.
