Jamaican Dancehall Artist Vybz Kartel’s Murder Conviction Overturned

The renowned Jamaican dancehall artist, Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, has had his murder conviction overturned. One of Jamaica’s most popular artists, Kartel has collaborated with international stars such as Jay-Z and Rihanna. The 48-year-old musician was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams on the Caribbean island.

Lengthy Trial and Appeal

Kartel’s 64-day trial was one of the longest in Jamaican history, culminating in a verdict that required him to serve a minimum of 35 years in prison, later reduced to 32 years upon appeal. The court heard that Clive Williams and another man, Lamar Chow, were given two unlicensed firearms by Kartel for safekeeping. When they failed to return the guns as agreed, they were summoned to Kartel’s house in August 2011. Chow testified that they were attacked, and the last thing he saw was Clive Williams lying motionless on the ground. Williams was never seen alive again, and the house was burned down days later, with no body ever recovered.

Persistent Claims of Innocence

Vybz Kartel and his co-accused, Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, have maintained their innocence since the original trial. Their appeal to The Privy Council, the highest court of appeal for Jamaica and other Commonwealth countries, was their final chance to overturn the verdict.

Allegations of Juror Misconduct

During the appeal, the defense argued that the trial judge mishandled allegations that a juror had offered 500,000 Jamaican dollars (approximately $3,200) to other jurors for a not-guilty verdict. Despite these serious allegations, the juror in question was not removed and participated in the final verdict.

Additional Concerns

The defense also argued that jurors were pressured to reach a verdict late in the day and that key mobile phone evidence was obtained in violation of guidelines. However, the Privy Council focused on the bribery allegations, finding them sufficient to overturn the convictions.

Judicial Decision

Judge David Lloyd-Jones stated that allowing the juror alleged to have offered bribes to remain on the jury was “fatal to the safety of the convictions” and infringed upon the accused’s fundamental right to a fair hearing. Consequently, Vybz Kartel’s case will return to Jamaica’s Court of Appeal to determine the next steps, which may include a new trial, a retrial, or potentially his release.

Conclusion

We hope this information clarifies the basis for the overturning of Vybz Kartel’s conviction. Please note that this newsletter is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter and should not be relied upon without seeking legal advice.

For further information or legal assistance, please contact us at info@wka.co.ke, visit our website at www.wka.co.ke, or call us at +254 798 03 580. Our Nairobi Hub is located at Parklands, Valley View Business Park, 6th Floor, City Park Drive, Off Limuru Road.

Authors:

• William Karoki, Founding Partner
• Florence Mwende, Associate