Fiji, May 4 -- Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says press freedom must be matched with responsibility, warning that journalism today is defined not by speed, but by accuracy, trust and its role in protecting peace and national unity.

Speaking at the World Press Freedom Day 2026 event on Monday, Manele told journalists that their work sits at the centre of democracy, but also carries serious consequences for society.

"This year's theme, 'Shaping a Future at Peace, Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security', speaks directly to the role of the media in our democracy and across the world."

He said journalists play a key role in connecting citizens to public life.

"From Honiara to our rural communiti...