A Methodist Church official has voiced concerns over the rising national crisis in Fiji, which includes increasing drug trafficking, teenage pregnancies, sexual crimes, and a surge in HIV/AIDS cases. Reverend Iliesa Koroi, the Evangelism Secretary for the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, criticized the church for failing to confront these urgent issues effectively.
Rev. Koroi emphasized that both the Government and the ‘vanua’ are overwhelmed in their efforts to address these challenges, primarily due to the church’s lack of action. “The Government and the vanua have exhausted themselves in trying to combat these social issues because we, the prophets, are not doing our job,” he stated.
He pointed out that true change in individuals does not come from education but from spiritual teachings. “People don’t change through education but through the word of God,” he remarked, expressing concern that the church’s leaders have become complacent. “The Government and the vanua are tired because the men of God are sleeping on the job,” he added.
Focusing on the younger generation, Rev. Koroi noted the urgent need for the church to engage with youth battling issues such as HIV/AIDS, drug abuse, and pornography. He argued that police efforts to combat drug-related problems would be futile without internal change driven by faith. “Only God can change Fiji,” he asserted.
The reverend also highlighted the importance of family unity and prayer, noting that modern families have increasingly moved away from essential spiritual practices. “Families need to spend time with each other and, most importantly, pray together,” he emphasized.
In response to a proposal by Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya to reinstate the death penalty for major drug traffickers, Rev. Koroi criticized this approach as ineffective. “She is a minister but can’t address the issue properly; instead, she proposes death. That is not the solution,” he said, stressing the need to tackle the root causes of crime rather than resorting to extreme measures. “We must address the root of the problem, which is the desire within a person.”
Rev. Koroi called for solidarity among religious leaders and encouraged all faith communities to collaborate in addressing the nation’s pressing social issues. “Let’s work together,” he declared, affirming his commitment to his role.