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Thousands who packed Rising Sun Grounds on Saturday night for a star-studded political rally in Antigua and Barbuda were left shaken after gunshots rang out during a live performance by Masicka, forcing an abrupt halt to one of the most anticipated events of the election season, which also featured major acts including Sizzla Kalonji and Destra Garcia. The incident, which unfolded in front of thousands, brought a sudden and chaotic end to what had been promoted as a flagship campaign showcase.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the gunfire erupted mid-set, triggering panic across the venue as patrons scrambled for safety. Masicka, who was actively performing at the time, was not connected to the disturbance, with early reports suggesting the incident originated within the crowd. Security personnel quickly intervened, but the disruption was significant enough to shut down the event entirely, raising fresh concerns about safety protocols at large-scale political gatherings.
The concert itself had been positioned as a major cultural and political moment, blending entertainment with campaign momentum ahead of upcoming elections. With a line-up featuring regional heavyweights like Sizzla and Destra Garcia, the event drew a massive turnout and significant regional attention. However, the abrupt ending has shifted focus from its intended impact to questions surrounding crowd control and event security.
Meanwhile, the incident adds to ongoing discussions about the intersection of entertainment and politics across the Caribbean, particularly as major artistes continue to headline politically affiliated events. As investigations continue, fans and industry stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how organisers respond—and how it may shape the staging of similar high-profile events moving forward.
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