Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, is scheduled to arrive in Trinidad and Tobago on May 26, 2025, ahead of his performance at the One Caribbean Music Festival on May 31. However, his visit has been met with restrictions imposed by Defence Minister Wayne Sturge, who has curtailed several of Kartel’s planned engagements.
According to a legal source within the ministry, Sturge has prohibited Kartel from participating in two media interviews and other events. Specifically, Kartel has been barred from a morning radio interview, a midday television appearance, and a local press drop-in on May 27. Additionally, on May 28, he is restricted from attending a meet and greet, visiting a school or youth centre, participating in a cultural lunch with community leaders, and an official meet and greet.
When questioned about these decisions, Sturge confirmed the adjustments, expressing concerns about Kartel’s interactions with the country’s vulnerable youths. He cited Kartel’s past legal troubles, noting that his conviction was overturned on a legal technicality rather than merit. Sturge emphasized the importance of safeguarding young people from potential negative influences.
This contrasts with Kartel’s previous visit to Trinidad in December 2024, when he launched his STR8 VYBZ rum collection in collaboration with Angostura Limited. During that visit, Kartel engaged in various promotional activities, including media interviews and public appearances, without any reported restrictions. The rum line, featuring products named after his hit songs, was well-received and sold out in Jamaica within two weeks of its launch .