T&T Defence Minister Restricts Vybz Kartel’s Local Itinerary Ahead of Concert
- dancehallleaguejm
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
In a swift move since taking office, Trinidad and Tobago's Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has significantly curtailed the planned public appearances of Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, citing concerns about his influence on the nation’s youth.
The entertainer, born Adidja Palmer, is expected to arrive in the country on May 26 ahead of his highly anticipated performance at the rescheduled One Caribbean Music Festival on May 31. However, a senior legal source within the ministry revealed that Sturge has intervened to limit Palmer’s non-performance engagements.
An immigration order signed off by the minister has blocked several appearances originally scheduled for May 27 and 28. These include a morning radio interview, a television appearance, and a local press drop-in. Also cancelled are a meet-and-greet session, a school or youth centre visit, a community lunch with local leaders, and an official welcome event.
Responding to queries from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian, Sturge confirmed the decision and expressed disapproval of Palmer engaging with vulnerable segments of society. “Given the nature of his past legal issues and the fact that his conviction was overturned on a technicality rather than merit, I don’t believe it’s appropriate for him to be in direct contact with impressionable youth,” Sturge said, adding that a formal media release is forthcoming.
Vybz Kartel, a polarizing yet influential figure in dancehall music, was freed of a murder conviction in 2024 after the UK-based Privy Council overturned the 2014 decision due to juror misconduct. The case was sent back to Jamaica’s Court of Appeal, which ruled out a retrial for Kartel and his co-accused—Shawn ‘Shawn Storm’ Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John—who were all convicted in connection with the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.
Palmer was originally slated to perform in Trinidad in February, but the concert was postponed to May due to scheduling changes. While fans remain eager for his return to the stage, it appears Kartel’s presence offstage will be tightly managed by the authorities.
