KOROR, Palau (PMC) — The Palau Media Council, in a statement, expresses deep concern with the recent lawsuit filed by Surangel & Sons Co. against Leilani Reklai, publisher of Island Times, in response to her newspaper’s report about tax-related documents that surfaced on social media.
The lawsuit, combined with the national government’s statement accusing Island Times of reporting “misinformation” and the decision to ban Island Times from Surangel & Sons outlets, raises critical concerns about citizens’ access to information and freedom of the press — both of which are cornerstones of a democratic society.
The Palau Media Council sees this legal action as an assault on press freedom and an attempt to undermine the accountability that is vital to democracy.
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 suggest, 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 affecting the private sector.
The Island Times, by publishing these documents, has provided a platform for clarifying public understanding of the new tax law’s impact on major corporations and the actual tax contributions of Surangel & Sons. These issues are clearly within the public’s right to know, and the Palau Media Council emphasizes that media plays a crucial role in reporting such findings and promoting informed debate.
The council stands in solidarity with 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.
Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s family owns Surangel & Sons, which “offers everything from housing design and automotive repair to equipment rentals, groceries, and scuba gear” through its import, sales, construction and travel arms, according to the company’s website.
Whipps is seeking re-election against his brother-in-law, former President Tommy Remengesau Jr.
