Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has imposed strict limitations on Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel’s scheduled activities during his upcoming visit to Trinidad and Tobago. Among Sturge’s first directives since assuming office, the minister revoked multiple public appearances by the artist, born Adidja Palmer, citing concerns about his influence on youth.
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Vybz Kartel, set to arrive on May 26 ahead of his May 31 concert, now faces cancellations of a radio interview, TV segment, press event, and community engagements, including a school visit and cultural luncheon. Sturge confirmed the restrictions to Guardian Media, emphasizing his unease over Palmer’s overturned 2014 murder conviction, which Jamaica’s Court of Appeal dismissed in 2024 due to juror misconduct.
“Given his legal history and the technicality behind his acquittal, allowing him access to vulnerable audiences poses risks,” Sturge stated, adding that a formal statement would follow.
Originally slated for February, Palmer’s performance was delayed to May as part of the rescheduled One Caribbean Music Festival. His murder charge, tied to the 2011 killing of Clive “Lizard” Williams, was voided by the UK Privy Council, which cited trial irregularities. While freed, a retrial decision remains pending with Jamaican authorities.
Sturge’s intervention underscores heightened scrutiny over entertainers with criminal records entering T&T, reigniting debates about artistic freedom versus public accountability.
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