Draft Charter Against Christian Faith

The Methodist Church conference members have resolved that they cannot support the draft Charter which for the sake of political correctness sacrifices the very essence of Christian faith.

Church general secretary Reverend Tuikilakila Waqairatu said the conference holds the view that in our multi-racial, multi-cultural nation, it would be to our own detriment if race based, constitutionally allowed affirmative action and communal-based electoral systems are dismantled contrary to the expressed will of the majority and contrary to the rule of law and the constitution.

On the proposal for inter-faith services and dialogue, Reverend Waqairatu said the conference affirms the pivotal Christian belief that Jesus Christ is the only way to God and salvation.

He said the Methodist Church supports peaceful dialogue and a harmonious community; it cannot support the draft Charter.

On the proposal for a common name for all the people, Reverend Waqairatu said the conference was of the view that the term "Fijian" refers to the indigenous people of Fiji as stipulated in the constitution.

He said the term "Fijian" refers to the legal ownership of land and other assets and it would be more responsible if the National Council for Building a Better Fiji (NCBBF) had recommended a more frank and good faith negotiation with the Fijian community on the matter.

Meanwhile, the Methodist Church of Fiji has decided that all its members should support the Church's stance against the draft People’s Charter by not signing the consultation forms that will be given to them by the NCBBF teams.