Waterford claims victory
Published:Thursday | August 1, 2024 | 12:08 AMRuddy Mathison/Gleaner Writer
The anticipation was palpable as a groundswell of Vybz Kartel supporters flooded several streets in Waterford, Portmore, in St Catherine.
The news that the Court of Appeal had denied a retrial for the dancehall artiste, leading to his release from the Tower Street Correctional Facility in downtown Kingston, sparked celebrations throughout the community.
“We were expecting this decision. We knew they couldn’t hold him forever. It is a blessing for us. Only hoping that we will see him tonight,” said an enthusiastic fan, reflecting the community’s joy and relief.
As the news spread of the release of Kartel, whose given name is Adidja Palmer, chants of “Worl’ Boss free” echoed through the streets, and the atmosphere reached fever pitch. Music boxes blared hits from Kartel’s extensive catalogue while excited supporters danced in celebration.
Garfield Francis, a producer who worked alongside the entertainer, expressed his elation, saying: “We are happy because justice is finally served. We expect more entertainment, more parties, more video shoots, and stage shows.”
Francis added;”This will bring more tourists to the community and grow the economy of the community. We will keep the community peaceful and ensure that we put our best forward.”
Francis also emphasised the positive impact Kartel’s return could have on the area, noting that the artiste’s involvement could enhance the community’s image and promote benevolence.
Cutty, an elder in the community, expressed similar sentiments, highlighting the potential for Kartel to heal existing rifts within the community.
“We expect things to be different. I know that Mr Palmer will be valuable in changing this trend. He has the power to do it,” Cutty told The Gleaner.
He shared his plans to work with Kartel to promote positivity, saying, “The community is crying out for this level of intervention, and I believe Kartel can be of great help.”
Waterford Councillor Fenley Douglas also weighed in, calling Kartel’s release “a victory for the people of Waterford, and, by extension, Jamaica and the world”.
He added, “This goes to show that justice may be blind, but it is not dead.”
Douglas concluded with a quote from one of Kartel’s songs, stating, “Unstoppable runaway train, every zinc fence, every lane, ghetto youths a aim fi the sky like plane.”