The Fiji Times, Suva

Founded in 1869 by Welshman George Littleton Griffiths, The Fiji Times is Fiji’s first and oldest newspaper, with a legacy rooted in the colonial town of Levuka. The newspaper initially operated from Albion Passage on Beach Street and later relocated to Suva in 1886, following Griffiths’ decision to merge it with his Suva-based publication, The Suva Times. Its headquarters reflects the architectural style of the late 19th century, characterized by a false-front design with symmetrical features, extended vertical parapets, and verandahs supported by columns—elements that have endured despite renovations.

Published in English, The Fiji Times remains a cornerstone of Fijian journalism, chronicling the nation’s history and its evolving political landscape. Owned by the Motibhai Group since 2010, the newspaper was previously part of Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. The ownership transition was prompted by Fiji's Media Industry Development Act 2010, a law that reshaped media ownership regulations.

Throughout its history, The Fiji Times has encountered significant challenges, including censorship during pivotal moments such as the 1987 military coup under Sitiveni Rabuka's administration. In protest, the paper issued editions with conspicuous white spaces where censored articles would have appeared. Post the 2006 coup d'état, the newspaper adopted a firm stance against censorship, refusing to publish under government restrictions, although stringent controls eventually curbed its editorial freedom in 2009.

The paper’s legacy extends beyond its printed pages. Notably, two editions from 1908 and 1909, printed on masi (Fijian bark cloth), are preserved at the Auckland Museum. These rare examples illustrate the innovative approaches to newspaper production in the Pacific's tropical colonial era. Despite facing adversity, The Fiji Times continues to be a vital source of information and a historical institution in Fiji's media landscape.