Priests wishing to contest polls should resign posts; if necessary will issue order, says Orthodox Church

KOTTAYAM: The Orthodox Church came down heavily on priests contesting polls. Those interested in contesting polls should quit posts, said Father M O John, Priest Trustee in the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. The Priest Trustee came forward with an open stand after Fr Mathews Vazhakunnam expressed his desire to contest polls as Left candidate in the Ranni constituency.

The church trustee said a final decision on supporting whom will be taken only after the parties’ selection of candidates. At present, there are no rules or regulations in the church against priests contesting. He said if required will take tough decisions, including banning them from contesting and issuing an official order on it.

Orthodox priest Mathai Nooranal from Sulthan Bathery had contested polls in 2001. However, the church explained that the situation is not the same as then and it is not appropriate for priests to contest in the new situation where political squabbles are rampant.