Soca artist Trinidad Killa has rushed to Vybz Kartel’s defense, offering advice and support after Trinidad’s new Defence Minister announced plans to restrict the Dancehall star’s movements during his upcoming visit to the island.
In a video posted to his Instagram, Trinidad Killa said Kartel has his full backing and declared, “I’m giving Kartel all access to everywhere in Trinidad.”
Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has issued an immigration order barring Kartel from participating in several scheduled appearances, including a morning radio interview, a midday television appearance, a press drop-in on May 27, a meet-and-greet, a visit to a school or youth centre, a cultural lunch with community leaders and an official public welcome on May 28.
Vybz Kartel, who hasn’t performed in Trinidad in over 15 years, has since released a video addressing the controversy.
On May 31, Kartel is set to perform at the One Caribbean Music Festival. This is the same event that was originally scheduled for Carnival week and sparked a hunger strike by Soca artist Yankey Boy, who was protesting Kartel’s inclusion.
However, despite the controversy, this is not Kartel’s first visit to Trinidad since his release from prison. Under a previous government, he made a promotional trip for his Str8 Vybz Rum brand.
Meanwhile, in Guyana, Kartel is facing separate backlash. The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has raised concerns about his 2024 track “Good Like Jesus”, calling the lyrics offensive to the Christian community.
The ERC is pushing for the song to be banned from Guyanese airwaves and digital platforms. They’re also working with the promoters of the upcoming Genesis Independence Weekend concert, scheduled for May 24, to prevent Kartel from performing the controversial track.
Following two sold-out shows at the Barclays Center in New York, Vybz Kartel is now expected to hit the stage in Miami tomorrow, May 17.
