Anticipation builds ahead of Vybz Kartel’s June 10 hearing

News

April 15, 2024

The Jamaican Court of Appeal has set the date for a crucial hearing scheduled for June 10th, determining the fate of Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel and his co-accused in the murder case of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams.

Following a notice issued by Justice Marva McDonald Bishop on Friday, deadlines for the submission of legal arguments have been established for May 6, and May 31 for the prosecution.

Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, along with Shawn ‘Storm’ Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre ‘Mad Suss’ St John, have spent over 12 years in prison while denying any involvement in Williams’ demise.

In a recent statement, Kartel expressed his confidence in the upcoming proceedings, stating, “I am also very confident that the court of appeal in Jamaica will do the right thing in the name of equity, fairness, and justice and free us.”

Addressing concerns over the possibility of a retrial, Kartel asserted his innocence, declaring, “…the most important point to me is that I am an innocent man. So in reality, I’m not in the least bit worried as I know I will be acquitted and go home to my family whom I have not been together with for over 10 years.”

The original trial hinged on telecommunication evidence and the testimony of key witness Lamar “Wee” Chow, who claimed Williams was murdered at Kartel’s residence in August 2011.

However, Kartel’s defense contested the admissibility of the evidence, citing breaches of the Jamaican constitution, and raised doubts about Chow’s credibility due to inconsistencies in his statements.

Meanwhile, Kartel’s legal representative, Isat Buchanan, confirmed the artist’s continued incarceration despite the UK Privy Council’s decision to quash his 32-year sentence due to juror misconduct.

The ruling, issued last month, has prompted anticipation among Kartel’s supporters, known as ‘Gaza Nation,’ who celebrated the development.

However, the case has been remitted to the Jamaican Court of Appeal to determine whether a retrial is warranted.

As the June 10 hearing approaches, both Kartel and his legal team await the directives from the Privy Council, poised to take their next steps based on the court’s decision.

The outcome of this retrial could mark a significant chapter in the ongoing legal saga surrounding one of Jamaica’s most prominent musical figures.