Trinidad considers age limits and song ban for Vybz Kartel concert

Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Minister, Wayne Sturge, is considering imposing restrictions on the upcoming One Unity Music Festival, which is set to be headlined by Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel.

The proposed measures include limiting the concert to patrons aged 18 and over and barring certain songs from being performed.

The move follows growing public backlash over the explicit content of some of Kartel’s lyrics, which critics, including religious groups, have condemned as vulgar and offensive—particularly a song that controversially compares the quality of a woman’s genitalia to Jesus.

In a statement released on Friday, Minister Sturge acknowledged the need to balance the artiste’s right to freedom of expression with concerns about national security, the public interest, and the protection of minors.

“In so doing, the Honourable Minister has given consideration to restricting attendance to the concert to be held on May 31 to persons of the age of 18 and over. Upon receipt of a legal opinion, a decision would be made on this issue,” a statement from the Ministry of National Security read.

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Minister Sturge also confirmed he is exercising his discretion to prohibit Kartel from performing the controversial track Good like Jesus within Trinidad and Tobago, citing its potential to offend those who hold Christian beliefs. The restriction would extend to “any song containing similar content,” while still acknowledging the artiste’s right to express himself.

In addition, the Minister is reviewing the possibility of amending the performance permit granted to Kartel, potentially barring him from making any radio or television appearances during his visit to the country.

Authorities have already restricted the deejay from participating in several promotional events previously scheduled by the show’s promoter, including a morning radio interview, a midday television appearance, a visit to a school or youth centre, and a cultural lunch with local leaders.

Responding in a social media video, Kartel distanced himself from the cancelled appearances, stating:

“There is no problem with Vybz Kartel performing in Trinidad. The necessary permits were granted. The problem lies with the promoter who took it upon themselves to try to fill Vybz Kartel’s itinerary with things that have nothing to do with Vybz Kartel’s performance,” he said.

“Rightfully so, the Defence Minister pulled the plug on part of the itinerary and there’s no problem there because Vybz Kartel represents Trinidad, Jamaica, and the entire Caribbean. My job is to come and perform for the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”

Minister Sturge noted that similar content restrictions have been placed on Vybz Kartel in the past, both locally and by other CARICOM states, as part of ongoing efforts to address concerns over lyrical content and its influence on youth audiences.