Vybz Kartel Free: Kenyans Ungovernable as Dancehall Superstar Is Released After Years Behind Bars

 

Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel released from prison

Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel and his three co-defendants are free after the Jamaican Court of Appeal ordered their release. Vybz Kartel and his wife after being released.  When was Vybz Kartel released? In a unanimous decision on Wednesday, July 31, the court ruled against Kartel's retrial over the murder of Clive Williams, whose remains were never found. Kartel was arrested in 2011, before his 2014 conviction, but he appealed the ruling. Vybz Kartel, Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John were released shortly after following years behind bars.   "We conclude that the interest of justice does not require a new trial to be ordered," Fox 5 reported, citing the ruling. In the ruling, the court said that there was sufficient evidence to suggest that Kartel would not be able to complete a potentially longer sentence if there were to be a retrial, citing his deteriorating health. A video doing rounds online showed Kartel walking out of jail dressed in white, alongside his wife. George Ombina, a diehard Kartel supporter said that his release meant a new dawn for dancehall music. "Afrobeats took over, but I believe it's time for dancehall to go back on top," he told TUKO.co.ke Kenyans were overjoyed by news of Kartel’s release and reacted by saying: 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 a great news this morning. Welcome back Kartel." 汉语 今: "I can't wait to pay KSh 20,000 to attend a Vybz Kartel's show." Oliver Kulundu Simiyu: "Vybz Kartel to the world." Which illness does Vybz Kartel have? The musician’s lawyer previously said inhumane prison conditions risked Kartel’s life. Isat Buchanan said Kartel was in a cell with no water, no air circulation and a bucket for a toilet worsening his health. " Buchanan noted that Kartel's neck was swollen. A medical report said that Kartel has a thyroid condition known as Graves' Disease. He also has two heart conditions and complications, with his private physician recommending surgery. 

by  William Osoro