Port-of-Spain, Trinidad & Tobago – Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister, Davendranath Tancoo, has called for an official investigation into the substantial foreign exchange payments reportedly made to Jamaican dancehall artist Adidja “Vybz Kartel” Palmer, in connection with the now-controversial One Caribbean Music Festival.
According to event organizers, Kartel was paid US$950,000 out of a US$1.3 million contract before withdrawing from the event due to alleged breaches of contractual obligations. Several other artists, including Sizzla Kalonji, Malie Donn, Rvssian, and Ghanaian-American singer Moliy, also pulled out under similar circumstances.
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In response to questions about how organisers secured such large amounts of U.S. currency amid ongoing forex shortages, Tancoo said, “I am also intrigued by the amount of foreign exchange being mentioned in the media reports… I have requested the Ministry of Finance to investigate and report on these matters.”
He emphasized that the inquiry is a “fact-finding effort” and not an accusation of wrongdoing. “Our Government is fully supportive of private-sector development in the music and entertainment industry to boost foreign exchange and contribute to GDP,” Tancoo added.
Police and FIU Monitoring Developments
Acting Police Commissioner Junior Benjamin also weighed in, suggesting the case warrants attention from financial investigators. “It might be something of great concern,” he said, referencing the criminal charge reportedly pending against one of the event’s main promoters. He confirmed that he would engage the Financial Intelligence Bureau (FIB) and Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) for a review.
Justice Minister Wayne Sturge gave a cautious response when asked about the situation. “Given my role and experience in the justice system, I believe it’s best that questions be directed to the Commissioner of Police and the FIU to avoid any perception of interference,” he stated.
Concert Fallout and Patron Backlash
Although Saturday’s event at the Queen’s Park Savannah was marketed as sold out, attendance was sparse following Kartel’s last-minute cancellation. Frustrated patrons demanded refunds, and videos of chaos—ranging from stage invasions to attendees venting their anger—flooded social media.
Ticket prices ranged from TT$670 (general admission) to TT$2,700 (VVIP), intensifying public outrage over the event’s failure to deliver promised performances.
Organisers have since committed to discussing reimbursement options for affected patrons. “Some form of compensation may be necessary,” a representative stated.
Kartel Speaks Out
In a video message posted to Instagram, Vybz Kartel apologized to his Trinidadian fans, blaming missed payment deadlines and contractual noncompliance. He revealed that despite urging his manager, Tee Jay, to “give the promoter a bligh,” the situation became untenable.
Kartel claimed he had warned organisers against planning the concert during Carnival season. “Don’t mess with the culture,” he said, adding that not every promoter is equipped to handle an event of his scale.
Financial Details and Legal Implications
According to a Guardian Media investigation, the festival was financed by a U.S.-based company operating in Trinidad and Tobago. The company reportedly invested over TT$5 million with the expectation of earning more than TT$10 million.
Financial records suggest Kartel received around US$900,000 in multiple payments, with funds transferred directly to his accounts. However, a final payment attempt on Indian Arrival Day was delayed due to the public holiday, complicating the deal.
In an effort to salvage the arrangement, the U.S. company allegedly offered four Trinidad-based condominiums as temporary collateral until the remaining funds could be paid. Kartel, however, demanded a single transfer and ultimately declined the offer.
The U.S. firm now intends to pursue legal redress, claiming financial losses from the collapsed deal. It is also reportedly seeking to recover funds from its local business partner.
The event’s official promoter, Jacho Entertainment Ltd., is a San Fernando-based company incorporated in 2015. The company registry documents list Odane Anderson (event promoter) and Petel Jones (senior accountant) as directors.
