Vybz Kartel has issued a response following a civil lawsuit filed by Trinidadian promoter Jacho Entertainment Limited after his withdrawal from the One Caribbean Music Festival in Trinidad last year.

In a press statement shared via social media, the dancehall star said he is “aware of public comments regarding the cancellation of the Trinidad performance,” but stressed that his position remains unchanged.

Kartel stated that the performance agreement required full payment of the agreed fee in advance and that the payment “was not completed.”

He added that since the matter is now before the appropriate legal forum, he will not be commenting further.

According to reports from the Trinidadian Guardian, the lawsuit alleges breach of contract, unjust enrichment and defamation.

Jacho Entertainment Limited is reportedly seeking more than $7.3 million in damages, along with the return of US$1.1 million already paid.

Vybz Kartel was contracted to headline the event for US$1.35 million but allegedly did not travel to Trinidad following a payment dispute. The matter has since been filed in the High Court of Justice.