Methodist Church relaxes certain conditions of smoking and kava ban

The Methodist Church in Fiji has relaxed certain conditions of the smoking and kava ban which was imposed in 2013.

When the kava and smoking ban was first imposed by late President Reverend Dr Tuikilakila Waqairatu, there was a strict directive for all members to stop smoking and drinking kava.

Under the leadership of the new President, Reverend Dr Tevita Banivanua, the matter was referred to a Standing Committee and certain guidelines have been put in place.

Secretary of Communications, Revered James Bhagwan says all church premises are now no smoking areas and church members have been asked to finish their kava sessions at a reasonable time.

The selling and drinking of kava at any church minister’s residence is still not allowed.

Bhagwan says they cannot give a directive that cannot be supervised and this is why the church is only encouraging members to make the right choices.

He says all church members have also been encouraged to go on a diet.

The Annual Conference continues today.