Church clergies would have to step down from their ministerial roles if they wished to stand in the upcoming General Election.

Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma general secretary, Dr Semisi Turagavou, said this was according to the church’s regulation.

In an interview, Dr Turagavou said, not all congregation supported the political party the church clergies have stood for.

“We as a church will need to remain neutral, this was important for clergies need to remember. The church have a critical role in ensuring there’s stability in the country,” he said.

He said the church which were hired for political campaigns were dependent on the decision of the church leader.

“I know there have been political parties that have used our church halls for their meetings and fundraisers recently but this does not mean we will be supporting the political parties which have hired the halls for meetings and fundraising,” he said.

He said the upcoming election was an important time in Fiji’s history.

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