Archbishop Jorge Cavazos Arizpe of San Luis Potosi in Mexico has called for the cancellation of a concert of controversial rockstar Marilyn Manson, claiming it would encourage “situations of evil.”
The archbishop claimed he sent a letter to Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona asking to axe the concert “for society’s sake and the sake of all Christians.”
“If we understand that situations of evil can be caused, as a church, united with our Lord Jesus, we cannot promote any kind of insinuation of evil,” he told press, adding that many others in the area were concerned as well.
Governor Gallardo confirmed the concert, slated to be a part of Potosi’s National Fair in August, will be going ahead.
“We’re not anymore in the time of the Holy Inquisition to forbid artistic expression,” he said.
Manson, best known for his song “Beautiful People” and cover of Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus,” has been plagued by scandal for most of his career, with the latest involving a string of allegations of sexual assault.
Former partner Evan Rachel Wood accused Manson of sexual assault during their tumultuous relationship, as have actor Charlyne Yi and several others.
Manson has denied the allegations.
Manson’s music was also criticised after the 1999 Columbine High School shooting as it was believed to have influenced the teenage killers.
United Kingdom Green MP Siân Berry has also expressed concern over Manson, calling for the singer’s UK concerts to be cancelled.