Palau Media Council Statement on Lawsuit Against Island Times Over Reporting on Tax Documents
2 November 2024 (Koror, Palau) — The Palau Media Council expresses deep concern in the recent lawsuit filed by Surangel and Sons Co. against Ms.Leilani Reklai, publisher of Island Times, in response to her paper’s coverage of tax-related documents that surfaced on social media.
This lawsuit, combined with government’s statements endorsing that Island Times reported mis-information on its coverage of the tax related document and the decision to ban Island Times from Surangel and Sons outlets, raises critical concerns about citizens’ access to information and the freedom of the press—both of which are cornerstones of a democratic society.
The Council sees this legal action as an assault on press freedom and an attempt to undermine the accountability that is vital to democracy. Ms. Reklai, one of Palau’s senior journalists, is being targeted simply for reporting on documents that were already in the public domain. She did not originate the information but responsibly conveyed what these documents suggested, raising questions about the current administration’s narrative on corporate tax contributions. Reporting on such information is a journalistic duty to ensure transparency in tax policies and government incentives impacting the private sector.
The Island Times, by publishing these documents, has provided a platform for clarifying public understanding of the new PGST tax law’s impact on major corporations and the actual tax contributions of Surangel and Sons.
These issues are clearly within the public’s right to know, and the Council emphasizes that media plays a crucial role in reporting such findings and promoting informed debate.
We stand in solidarity with Ms. Reklai and all journalists who strive to find and uphold the truth. In a healthy democracy, a free and open press is essential for informed citizens and responsible governance.-
ENDS/PMC