Fake Accounts Linked to Deregistered FijiFirst Party Launch Attacks on Duavata News

A wave of fake accounts on Facebook and TikTok has surfaced overnight, launching coordinated attacks against Duavata News and its personnel.

The attacks have been vicious, highly personal, and laced with false information designed to discredit the independent news outlet.

Many of the accounts behind the attacks are either newly created or are older fake profiles that had previously posted positive content about the now-deregistered FijiFirst party.

While not necessarily related, it is notable that the smear campaign began shortly after Duavata News published a report on minority MP Ketan Lal.

The report highlighted concerns that Lal had not adhered to FijiFirst principles after failing to comply with a request from former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum to donate excess parliamentary salary payments to charity.

Acting Editor Arnold Chanel stated that such behavior was unfortunate but would not deter the organization.

"No amount of intimidation or fake accounts will deter us from reporting facts, and we will never compromise on this. We have regularly held all sides and all parties to account — including the public & private sectors, government and opposition."

Duavata News remains committed to reporting without fear or favor, despite ongoing attempts to undermine its credibility through fake news and intimidation tactics.

Duavata News is currently in the process of recruiting an Editor and urges experienced journalists to apply at: editor@duavata.news