Palau’s Leading Newspaper Sued for Defamation Just Before Election

Surangel and Sons allege “false allegations” over leaked tax documents; media freedom advocates voice concerns.

With Palau’s November 5 election just days away, the nation’s largest private company, Surangel and Sons Co., has filed a defamation lawsuit against Island Times and editor Leilani Reklai. The company, owned by the father of Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr., claims Island Times published “false and unverified” claims about its tax records, leaked last month. Surangel and Sons asserts that these documents were illegally obtained and altered before they surfaced online.

According to the company, this report breaches privacy and could damage its competitive edge. In response, editor Reklai—who also reports for BenarNews—denies these accusations and warns that the lawsuit may aim to curb press freedom in Palau. She emphasized the press’s duty to deliver diverse perspectives.

Press Freedom Advocates Respond

The case has drawn attention from the Pacific Freedom Forum (PFF), a media rights advocacy group. PFF Chair Robert Iroga from the Solomon Islands expressed firm support for journalists reporting on public interest topics. He argued that outdated defamation laws can limit free press and stressed that many countries have repealed these laws due to concerns over censorship.

Palau’s Press Freedom Legacy

Palau leads the Pacific in media freedom, topping the 2023 Pacific Media Freedom Index. The PFF noted that this lawsuit could challenge Palau’s strong stance on press freedom and transparency, particularly as Palau’s constitution enshrines freedom of expression as a fundamental right.

Government Investigation Underway

Finance Minister Kaleb Udui Jr. addressed the public on the leak during a press conference. He confirmed that authorities have launched an investigation into the breach, apologized for any unintended privacy violations, and expressed hope that media outlets would verify facts while respecting privacy.

In response to the report, Surangel and Sons announced they would stop distributing Island Times in their stores.

Source: Benar News