Jamaican dancehall artist Adidja Palmer, known as Vybz Kartel, has been released from prison following a Court of Appeal ruling. The court's decision on Wednesday, July 31, overturned Kartel's retrial for the murder of Clive Williams, whose remains were never found. Kartel, who was arrested in 2011 and convicted in 2014, walked free after appealing the ruling.
Kartel, along with co-defendants Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John, were released shortly after the court's unanimous decision. The court stated that a retrial was unnecessary due to Kartel's deteriorating health, which would prevent him from completing a longer sentence if convicted again.
A video circulating online showed Kartel leaving jail dressed in white, accompanied by his wife. His release has sparked joy among his fans, especially in Kenya, where many have called for him to perform.
One enthusiastic supporter, George Ombina, expressed hope for a resurgence in dancehall music, saying, "Afrobeats took over, but I believe it's time for dancehall to go back on top."
Kenyans took to social media to share their excitement:
Karis Junior: "The person who brought Benny Hin should also bring Vybz Kartel."
Kakamega Gossip: "Kenyans enjoy it more than Jamaicans. His first show should be in Kenya."
Kiren Merisa: "I am just waiting for his new song cause I know it will be lit."
Aphax Aphy: "Girlfriends Day canceled. Today it's Vybz Kartel day."
Maggie Sliim: "Wow, such great news this morning. Welcome back Kartel."
æ±‰è¯ ä»Š: "I can't wait to pay KSh 20,000 to attend a Vybz Kartel's show."
Oliver Kulundu Simiyu: "Vybz Kartel to the world."
Kartel's lawyer, Isat Buchanan, previously highlighted the inhumane conditions of his imprisonment, noting that Kartel was kept in a cell with no water or air circulation and used a bucket for a toilet. This worsened his health, as Kartel suffers from Graves' Disease, two heart conditions, and related complications, for which his doctor has recommended surgery.
Kartel's release has not only brought relief to his family and fans but has also reignited interest in dancehall music globally
