All Methodist Church members who were at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua on Monday evening went on their own free will and were not forced as reported by the overseas media, says the Land Force Commander, Colonel Mosese Tikoitoga.
“We (the military and the church) have been having continuous meetings at the military camp because we do not have to pay for the use of the facility,” he said.
“There has been a lot of give and takes in our meetings up there to clarify and discuss the agendas and consultations on issues by both parties.”
Col Tikoitoga added that Monday (August 22) was the last meeting and vehicles were provided to help Methodist ministers get to the venue on time.
“That is the reason a vehicle with officers from Nabua was sent to pick up Reverend Josateki Koroi who lives in Navua and also to seek a wider range of opinions from non-serving ministers,” Col Tikoitoga said.
“The soldiers picked up a police officer from Navua to accompany them to Rev Koroi’s residence, He was asked politely to be part of the meeting, which he hesitated. They asked again and he declined so the officers returned
“At no point, did soldiers force the Methodist Church hierarchy into the car to be taken to camp.”
The Land Force Commander also refuted overseas media reports that the military personnel had seized ministers, adding that no church minister was detained because all had left after the meeting.
Ministry of Information permanent secretary Ms Sharon Smith – Johns questioned the integrity of overseas media reports saying the issues should have either been verified with a government representative or the military.
“The part that hits Fiji most is that there is no verification of the subject. I am always available by phone even odd hours and anybody can just call and verify,” she said.