Nine Methodist church ministers and officials appeared before Magistrate Eparama Rokoika today charged with organizing meetings in contravention to the Public Emergency Regulation.

However the Defence Counsel, Aseri Vakaloloma disputed the charges today.

He said the nine individuals should not be charged as they are only employees of the Church.

Vakaloloma said the court should charge the church as they organize meetings.

He pointed out that the first meeting of the Methodist Church started in London in 1737 which was organized by the Church then.

In court today, Director Public Prosecutor John Rabuku asked the court to give him time to reassess the charges and both counsels to make representations.

Vakaloloma also highlighted the letter which was signed by Director Police Operations SSP Waisea Tabakau to convene the meeting.

Magistrate Rokoika agreed that the charges be reviewed and the bail condition still stands.

Also in court, Reverend Tuikilakila Waqairatu was given his passport by the court to be a guest speaker at a church meeting in Thailand.

Present in court today were Rev Ame Tugawe, Rev Waqairatu, Rev Tomasi Kanailagi, Rev Manasa Lasaro, Rev Apete Toko, Rev Kalivati Ravoka, Sakaraia Koli, Ratu Inoke Seniloli and Livai Tuisaravere.

The case will be recalled on the 10th of next month.