Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has labelled those using religion to sow distrust about the COVID-19 vaccines as false prophets.

He urged Fijians not to be easily led astray.

“Vaccines have been with us for more than a century. It is because of vaccines that we have no smallpox and no polio. So please, get your vaccination as soon as you can.”

Despite assurances by our scientists, doctors and relevant international bodies about its safety, some Fijians are choosing not to take the jab because of their distrust in the health system and religious beliefs.  Others resist because of the influence from spiritual leaders.

Mr Bainimarama said there are people who are manipulating religion to sow distrust in these vaccines. Don’t let them lead you astray. These false prophets would all happily go to the hospital to receive treatment if they were sick. They would trust that God would guide the hands of our doctors and nurses to care for them. For all other illnesses they will tell you to see a doctor, when it comes to COVID-19, they make an exception.

“Why this hypocrisy?  The choice to protect ourselves from COVID-19 is no different than any other illness. So do not listen to their lies about COVID-19 and the vaccines. Do the right thing for yourself, for your family, and for Fiji –– be vaccinated. Be protected.”

Mr Bainimarama said vaccines are the best path for every Fijian towards being protected from COVID-19.

“They are our way back to a normal life, and I want all Fijians to understand how important they are. Please listen to our medical experts when they tell you that the vaccines are safe. No one who is posting on Twitter or Facebook has their experience and knowledge.”

The administration of vaccines is taking place throughout the country with concentrated efforts are focused on  Viti Levu.

Yesterday executives of the Methodist Church in Fiji  including their families received their jabs at the church compound in Pender Street, Suva.