Methodist stance worries Fiji military

FIJI – The Fiji military has issued a warning that recent statements by the Methodist Church could lead to ethnic tension and instability.

It has released a statement saying it’s concerned a prominent religious organisation is vocalising the supposed marginalisation of indigenous Fijians.

The Fiji Sun reported it was the first time the Republic Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) had issued a statement over a political issue since the return to elected government.

The military’s chief of staff Colonel Ratu Jone Kalouniwai told the paper it was because the church had an influence in political events from 1987 to 2006.

“The RFMF, given its constitutional role to ensure the safety, security and well-being of Fiji and all Fijians, is concerned that a prominent religious organisation such as the Methodist Church of Fiji is vocalising the supposed marginalisation and agitation of the iTaukei in its five-point submission,” said the statement.

“These we strongly feel have the potential to influence and breed suspicion, distrust, heightening ethnic tensions and potentially lead to conflict.”

The military was referring to the Methodist Church’s submission on proposed village bylaws which includes calling for Fiji to be made a Christian state, the review of the constitution and certain decrees and the addressing of indigenous people’s concerns.

- RNZI