Fake News Attacks Only Make Us Stronger

Duavata News Deputy Editor Indraneel Chand has thanked those behind a series of fake news posts targeting Duavata News and its team, saying the attacks have only helped increase the platform's reach and visibility.

Chand said many of the false claims appear to originate from a Facebook group that regularly publishes fake political content through fake accounts, clearly embarrased of who they are and hiding their identities.

"Most of these attacks appear to originate from a Facebook group that openly promotes the interests and talking points of the now-deregistered FijiFirst Party. Ironically, rather than helping their cause, these primitive attacks, indicating a low education level, often achieve the opposite effect by drawing attention to the very people and organisations they seek to discredit."

"Rather than harming us, all they are really doing is sending more traffic our way and introducing new audiences to Duavata News. As we move closer to 60,000 followers, we sincerely thank them for the free publicity."

Chand said the attacks are often so absurd that they provide little more than a brief moment of amusement for the Duavata News team.

"There is an old saying that sheep spend their lives worrying about the opinions of other sheep, while lions simply keep moving forward. We know who we are, we know what we stand for, and we remain focused on serving our audience."

He said Duavata News continues to experience rapid growth, with weekly reach regularly hitting 2 million views across 500,000 unique accounts during major news periods and thousands of messages received from members of the public requesting coverage of issues affecting their communities.

"Every day we receive story tips, concerns and requests from ordinary Fijians who feel their voices are not being heard elsewhere. That is what motivates our work."

Chand said Duavata News' growth may also serve as a testament to the benefits of a freer media environment in Fiji.

"As the first and currently only new media organisation to have successfully registered following the abolition of MIDA, Duavata News has demonstrated that independent journalism can thrive when barriers to entry are reduced, and new voices are given the opportunity to compete."

Chand also said Duavata News remains committed to providing fair coverage across the political spectrum and rejects suggestions that it serves any particular political interest.

"We have covered Government, the Opposition, political parties, community groups, businesses and ordinary citizens. Whenever we publish a critical story about one side of politics, supporters of that side are naturally unhappy; that is simply the reality of Fiji's highly polarised political environment," Chand said.

"Our focus has always been simple: to tell stories that matter, amplify voices that are often overlooked, and ensure that everyday Fijians have access to information and perspectives that may not otherwise receive attention."

"Despite operating with a small team and limited resources, Duavata News has consistently punched above its weight, competing alongside some of Fiji's largest and most established media organisations."

"Fake news attacks come and go. Our mission remains the same."

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