24 Nov 2005

Controversy continues over Reverend Moon's planned Vanuatu visit

2:46 pm on 24 November 2005

In Vanuatu, controversy continues to surround next month's planned visit by the Reverend Sun Myung Moon to Port Vila.

The Daily Post reports that Christian groups have expressed concern that the December the 5th visit by the South Korean evangelist will lead to their followers' beliefs being infiltrated by new doctrines.

The speculation has prompted President Kalkot Mataskelekele to invite the country's three former Heads of State; George Sokomanu, Jean-Marie Leye and John Bennett Bani for private talks about the visit.

Following a promise by Mr Sokomanu to challenge the government in court if it tries to stop the Reverend Moon from visiting the country, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has consulted the State Law Office on the legality of the visit and is still waiting for an answer.

However, if the Reverend is allowed to enter the country, the Department of Foreign Affairs has indicated he won't be met by government leaders.