Dancehall star Vybz Kartel has been banned from several activities in Trinidad and Tobago days before his concert. Trinidad and Tobago Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has reportedly issued an immigration order limiting the deejay’s activities during his upcoming visit.
The Trinidad and Tobago Guardian reported that the order trims several items from the artiste’s itinerary ahead of his performance on May 31.
Adidja “Vybz Kartel” Palmer had originally been scheduled for a busy media run beginning May 27, including a morning radio interview, a midday television appearance, and an open press drop-in. Under Minister Sturge’s directive, all three engagements have been cancelled.
Further restrictions extend into May 28, as Kartel will no longer take part in a planned meet-and-greet, nor will he visit a local school or youth centre. A cultural lunch with community leaders that afternoon has also been removed from his schedule.
In a statement to the Guardian, Minister Sturge explained that the limitations reflect concerns about Kartel’s past legal issues and the potential impact on vulnerable young people. “His conviction was not based on merit but on a legal technicality,” Sturge noted, arguing that unfettered access to youths could send the wrong message.
Kartel’s legal history is unusual among high-profile entertainers. He spent 13 years in prison following a 2007 conviction for the murder of his friend Clive “Lizard” Williams. His release on July 31 last year came after the United Kingdom Privy Council identified jury misconduct in his trial. Jamaica’s Court of Appeal later upheld that decision, clearing the way for his freedom.
Since his release, Vybz Kartel has remained in the spotlight with new songs, fresh music video shoots, interviews, local and international sold-out concerts, a Grammy nomination, and a MOBO award.
Despite the curtailed schedule, Vybz Kartel’s main concert date on May 31 remains intact, as the artiste’s performance itself was not impacted by the immigration order.