Will Vybz Kartel Be Free Soon

March 15, 2024

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Vybz Kartel, a famous singer from Jamaica, has had his conviction for murder overturned. The 48-year-old artist, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, was serving a life sentence since 2014 for the killing of Clive “Lizard” Williams on the Caribbean island.

Kartel’s successful appeal was heard by the Privy Council in London. The appeal argued that a juror in his trial had tried to bribe others, which should have disqualified them from serving. Now, it’s up to authorities in Jamaica to decide if Kartel will face a new trial.

During the original trial, which lasted for 64 days, it was alleged that Kartel had given two guns to Clive Williams and another man for safekeeping. When they didn’t return the guns as agreed, they were called to Kartel’s house where an argument ensued. Clive Williams went missing afterwards, and his body was never found.

Kartel, along with his co-accused Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, had maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings.

The Privy Council, which is the highest court of appeal in Jamaica and other Commonwealth countries, ruled that the presence of a juror accused of attempted bribery compromised the fairness of the trial. This, they said, violated the defendants’ right to a fair hearing.

Apart from the bribery issue, Kartel’s legal team had also raised concerns about other aspects of the trial, such as the timing of jury deliberations and the admissibility of certain evidence. However, the Council focused primarily on the bribery allegation in their decision.

Vybz Kartel is not only known for his music but also for his entrepreneurial ventures. He has released several hit songs and collaborated with international artists like Jay-Z and Rihanna. Additionally, he became the first dancehall artist to have his own reality TV show, called “Teacha’s Pet.” Now, with his conviction overturned, Kartel might have another chance to clear his name and continue his musical career.