Duavata News Editor Opens Hope Carnival on World Press Freedom Day

“Drugs are the greatest threat Fiji has ever faced.” These were the sobering words of Duavata News Acting Editor Arnold Chanel as he officially opened the 2025 Hope Carnival in Lautoka, serving as the event’s chief guest on World Press Freedom Day.

Held at Churchill Park, the Hope Carnival is an annual week-long charity event that brings together communities, youth leaders, and stakeholders in a festive but purposeful gathering. This year’s theme, “Say No to Drugs,” reflects Fiji’s growing struggle with drug abuse, particularly among its younger population.

In his keynote address, Chanel issued a powerful call to action, warning that the country is “at war” — not with another nation, but with a silent enemy that is infiltrating schools, communities, and even homes. “This war is destroying our children. Even primary school students — our future — are falling victim. As a community, we cannot sit silently and as spectators,” he said.

Speaking to the pageant contestants, who serve as ambassadors throughout the event, Chanel told them that they were now on the front lines of this fight. “You are not just here to wear sashes and smile. You are advocates. You are leaders. And you have a responsibility to stand up, speak up, and fight back.”

Chanel’s invitation as chief guest coincided with World Press Freedom Day — a symbolic gesture by organisers who recognised Duavata News’s role as a rising voice in Fiji’s independent media landscape.

In his remarks, Chanel underscored the media’s critical role in the anti-drug campaign, saying that journalism was more than storytelling — it was a public service. “A free press is the light that exposes darkness. It gives voice to victims, it calls out failures, and it holds the powerful accountable. And in the fight against drugs, that light must never be dimmed.”

He also took a moment to acknowledge and thank the key organisers behind the Hope Carnival, including the Hope Carnival Committee, Lautoka City Council, the Fiji Police Force, and event coordinator Ana Masere, whose leadership and coordination were instrumental in bringing the event to life .

The Hope Carnival continues throughout the week with live performances, school outreach, awareness campaigns, and fundraising for support services aimed at helping victims of addiction and domestic violence.

Arnold Chanel is a business executive and a media personality in Fiji. He is the founder and acting Editor of Duavata News.

He also founded Vanguard Tech where he also serves as its Chief Executive. Mr. Chanel holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of the South Pacific, double majoring in Journalism and Psychology.

He has had a long and storied career in media and humanitarian response, including work with organisations such as the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and has served as a board member of the Fiji Cancer Society.