Minister curbs Vybz Kartel’s media tour

Defence Minister Wayne Sturge has ordered that the itinerary of Jamaican dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel be cut.

In one of his first acts of business, Sturge, according to a legal source within the ministry, is prohibiting Vybz Kartel from two media interviews and other events.

The artiste, born Adidja Palmer, is scheduled to arrive in the country on May 26 in preparation for his concert on May 31.

According to the immigration order, Sturge blanked Palmer from doing a morning radio interview, a midday TV appearance, and a local press drop-in on May 27.

He also blocked a meet and greet, a visit to a school or youth centre, a cultural lunch with community leaders and an official meet and greet on May 28.

In an immediate response to Guardian Media, Sturge, after questioning how Guardian Media became aware of his orders, confirmed the adjustments.

He said that based on Palmer’s past legal troubles he was concerned about him interacting with the country’s vulnerable youths, “particularly as his [release] was not based on merit but on a legal technicality”.

The minister added that a detailed media release was being drafted.

Vybz Kartel was originally scheduled to perform in T&T in February at the One Caribbean Music Festival; however, the event was postponed to May.

(Trinidad Guardian)