The Methodist Church of Fiji maintains their stand that Fiji should be a Christian Sovereign Democratic State.
Speaking at the Public Seminar on Religion and State at USP earlier this week, President elect, Reverend Tuikilakila Waqairatu said in the present context, there are many churches in the Christian circle, likewise other living faiths such as Islam, Hinduism and others with their contribution to the nation.
Waqairatu clarifies why the church is choosing Fiji to be a Christian State.
Meanwhile Fiji Muslim League wants Fiji to be a welfare state where all different communities live peacefully and work hand in hand for the betterment of our people and the development of the country.
National Vice President, Abdul Qayyum Khan said we must respect the constitution however the abrogation of the supreme law of the land brings lawlessness in the society and is a breeding ground for the religious extremism and disrupts relationships among the different communities.
The Seventh Day Adventist Church said they strongly support Fiji being a sovereign, democratic state however voiced reservations about the secular state status.
General Secretary, Pastor Wame Sausau said secular has become associated in many minds with anti-Christian or anti religious, and this is largely a modern phenomena.
Sausau said a correct understanding of the concept of separation of church and state will ultimately lead to respect for freedom of conscience. He said in such a scenario the church realizes its proper place in society.
The Shree Sanatan Dharam Pratinidri Sabha of Fiji said since Colonial era till now, Fiji has enjoyed freedom of worship and allegiance to one's choice of their faith.
National Secretary, Vijendra Prakash said on the other hand if Fiji is allowed to be a Christian State or Hindu State or a Muslim State then it will undermine other different faith based members.
He said Fiji is to remain a secular state.
Story by: Tokasa Rainima
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Fiji should be a Christian Sovereign Democratic State-Methodist Church
