Veteran journalist Galumalemana Tipi Autagavaia has urged fellow media colleagues to be transparent and challenged the President of the Journalism Association of Western Samoa (J.A.W.S.) to call an Annual General Meeting as they haven't had one in over three years.

As Samoa commemorates World Press Freedom Day, Galumalemana, with over three decades of experience in the field, underscores the paramount importance of transparency in media practices. 

Galumalemana's call resonates particularly within the Journalism Association of Western Samoa (J.A.W.S.), urging for transparency in its governance and financial stewardship.

"If we are all about reporting on facts and transparency and holding our leaders accountable, we need to stop and ask ourselves if we are being transparent within our organisation. 

"We need to practice what we preach and what we stand for. I challenge the President and executive to call an A.G.M. We haven't had one for quite some time now and we need to be transparent."

In response to Galumalemana's appeal, Lagi Keresoma, President of J.A.W.S., assures that the Annual General Meeting (A.G.M.) remains on the agenda. 

Ms. Keresoma clarifies that the delay in convening the A.G.M. stems from the need to finalise audited financial reports, essential for transparent decision-making within the association.

"...and he knows that," Ms. Keresoma said. 

"The delay is the report hasn't been finalised. We cannot have an A.G.M. without an audited financial report and once the report is ready, then we call an A.G.M.

The last time J.A.W.S. had an A.G.M. was in 2021.

Galumalemana also shared insights into the evolving role of journalists and the challenges they confront in the vibrant media landscape of Samoa.

Acknowledging the commendable initiative by the United Nations to honour World Press Freedom Day, Galumalemana emphasizes the indispensable role of the media in fostering an informed society. 

He candidly addressed the adversities faced by journalists, who often encounter public scrutiny and skepticism. One prominent challenge highlighted is the difficulty in forging relationships within the community, especially with leaders who sometimes view journalists with distrust.

"We are often called stupid, liars, and so many things with some people suggesting that we go back to school," Galumalemana said. 

"Our pursuit for the truth isn't easy and being in the media is no walk in the park. It's a tough profession to take up but also a rewarding one."

Despite enduring criticism and disparagement, Galumalemana reaffirms the vital function of the media as the fourth estate. 

He stresses their responsibility to hold leaders accountable and ensure transparency in governance, as elected representatives serve at the behest of the populace. 

Galumalemana said journalists serve as the conduits of information, empowering citizens with knowledge about pertinent issues and facts.

However, he acknowledges the inherent complexity of media work, where not every story resonates with every individual. Galumalemana contends that while the media cannot cater to everyone's preferences, it remains steadfast in its duty to report objectively and truthfully.

"We cannot entertain everyone; and we know that not every agrees with the story we report on. That's the nature of this job. But we hold our leaders accountable and it's not up to us to control how our readers and community interpret the stories we write.

"They have the freedom to express their views on the different stories we do. 

Moreover, he champions the freedom of media outlets to fulfill their journalistic mandates independently, notwithstanding variances in editorial approaches.

Galumalemana implored journalists to uphold transparency in their endeavours, recognising that accountability should extend to all facets of media operations. 

Amidst discussions of press freedom, this year's theme, "A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis," underscores the evolving role of media in addressing global challenges.