Dancehall entertainer, Vybz Kartel (left) and Chief of the Accompong Maroons, Ricard Curry (right), salute the crowd at the People’s National Party’s, PNP, 86th annual conference at the National Arena in Kingston on Sunday September 15, 2024. (Daina Davy/Nationwide News Network)
General secretary of the People’s National Party, PNP, Dr. Dayton Campbell, has defended the controversial decision to feature dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel at the party’s 86th annual conference.
On Sunday, the entertainer along with his attorney, Isat Buchanan, took the stage to raucous applause from comrades inside the National Arena.
Dr. Campbell insists that conference is open to all, regardless of their past.
Kartel, was recently freed after being convicted for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.
After spending approximately thirteen years behind bars, Kartel’s conviction was overturned by the UK-based Privy Council, which found the original trial tainted by jury tampering.
Kartel took to the podium during the party’s roll call segment inside the packed arena.
PNP deputy general secretary, Nekeisha Burchell says the party is for all Jamaicans.
South St. Catherine member of parliament, Fitz Jackson, also defended Kartel’s appearance at the conference.
Fitz Jackson, South St. Catherine MP.
After a decade-long legal battle, Kartel and two of his former co-convicts walked out of Tower Street Correctional facility on July 31, a free man.
On Sunday, the entertainer along with his attorney, Isat Buchanan, took the stage at the PNP gathering in a surprise appearance.
Kartel was flanked by members of his entourage as well as chief of the Accompong Maroons, Richard Currie.
The men were introduced to the crowd of exuberant PNP supporters during the party’s roll call segment.
Mr. Buchanan used the opportunity to express his support for opposition leader, Mark Golding.
Kartel also stood beside Mr. Buchanan as he gave the endorsement.
Isat Buchanan, attorney-at-law.
Meanwhile, Chief of the Accompong Maroons, Richard Currie, also endorsed Mr. Golding as the future leader of the country.
Richard Currie, Chief of the Accompong Maroons.
Credit: Source link