Vybz Kartel dodges Trinidad Carnival performance controversy following outcry

Jamaican dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel has declined to comment on the controversy surrounding his potential performance in Trinidad and Tobago during the upcoming Carnival season.

Instead, the artiste, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, chose to focus on promoting his new rum brand, STR8 VYBZ, during its official Trinidad and Tobago launch at the Angostura Solera Wine and Spirits Retail Store in Port-of-Spain.

Speculation about Kartel performing during Carnival erupted last month after a social media post hinted he was slated to perform on Carnival Friday, sparking a heated debate about its impact on local soca artistes.

The controversy intensified when soca artiste Kevon “Yankey Boy” Heath staged a hunger strike in protest of the news.