PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad- Trinidad and Tobago Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has reportedly issued an immigration order against dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel, who is scheduled to perform in the country later this month, that his travel itinerary be cut, according to reports from the Trinidad and Tobago Guardian.
Vybz Kartel, whose given name is Adidja Palmer, is scheduled to perform in Trinidad and Tobago on May 31.
However, Sturge has reportedly blocked Vybz Kartel from participating in a morning radio interview, a midday TV appearance, and a local press drop-in on May 27.
Additionally, he has been barred from participating in a meet and greet, a visit to a school or youth centre, and a cultural lunch with community leaders on May 28.
According to the Trinidad and Tobago Guardian, the minister has noted that these restrictions stem from Palmer’s past legal troubles, raising concerns about him interacting with the country’s vulnerable youths, “particularly as his conviction was not based on merit but on a legal technicality.”
Kartel was freed from prison on July 31 last year after 13 years behind bars for the murder of his friend Clive “Lizard” Williams.
His conviction was overturned by the United Kingdom Privy Council which cited misconduct on the part of the jury. That decision was upheld by Jamaica’s Court of Appeal.