Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Minister Wayne Sturge continues to take a cautious approach ahead of Vybz Kartel’s performance at the One Unity Music Festival while allowing the deejay more freedom. Kartel is now permitted to do two radio interviews. He was initially barred from engaging in radio interviews and several other activities, which ignited backlash from his fans.
Although Sturge has given him some leeway as long as the two radio interviews are aired during non-peak hours. The interviews must air between 9 a.m. and midday, or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, the May 31 concert entry will be limited to patrons aged 18 and over, with certain songs banned. Sturge emphasised that the move isn’t punitive but ensures Kartel’s influence promotes positive messaging for the nation’s youth.
This announcement comes days after Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessa, released a statement defending the government’s decision to issue an immigration order limiting Kartel’s engagements during his upcoming visit. Her comments garnered much criticism from fans.
Persad-Bissessar, speaking at a press conference, emphasised that it is important to have balance. She expressed that while Vybz Kartel can express himself, it will not be at the risk of their children. “I’m not going to let him go and talk to our children, do TV shows, and whatever,” she said, indicating that a balance is necessary. “It’s not an absolute right; there is no absolute freedom and absolute right for any person in our country,” she continued.
While a few social media users agreed that her stance was appropriate considering how Vybz Kartel’s conviction was handled, many argued that she was being biased because he is a Jamaican, reiterating the old rumour that Trinidadians dislike Jamaicans. Fans also urged Vybz Kartel to cancel the show, including one fan who said, “Kartel, you have the absolute right to cancel that show and go elsewhere. Don’t go make money for people who don’t want you in their country. It’s that simple!”
Another fan wrote, “I dont know why you guys are surprised; they don’t really like Jamaicans over there.”
The immigration order was issued ahead of Kartel’s May 31 concert, cutting items from his itinerary that included social events. The order ignited criticism from Jamaicans, prompting Kartel to address the matter in an Instagram video, during which he said his itinerary was extended by the promoter and he had no issues with the government’s decision to limit his activities.