FIJI Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry says comments about bhajaniyas by FijiFirst general secretary Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum at a Nasinu rally last week were “insulting and demeaning”.
Mr Chaudhry was referring to Mr Sayed-Khaiyum questioning the calibre of an FLP candidate referring to him as a “bhajaniya” and questioning his ability to contribute to debates and discussion if elected into Parliament.
The FLP leader criticised Mr Sayed-Khaiyum for mocking his party candidate’s leisure activity of singing bhajans (religious songs).
“The candidate in question has a high standing in his community,” Mr Chaudhry said.
“He has university education specialising in the English language and literature as well as Hindi language and culture. He is a business and sales executive and is deeply involved in religious and cultural activities.
“This young man must be commended for his strong religious background and for spending his leisure time engaging in cultural activities.
“He is a grassroots candidate.”
Mr Chaudhry said Mr Sayed-Khaiyum has no right to mock a person’s religious beliefs and practices.
“Indeed, he has attacked the person’s constitutional right to practise his religion the way he thinks best.
“My advice to the FijiFirst general secretary is not to stoop to the gutter level at his campaign meetings.
“Stick to issues.
“You have a lot to answer to this nation for the mess you have made of our economy.
“Besides, neither you nor some of your other top candidates are in a position to throw stones at the qualifications and achievements of candidates from other political parties.”
