KINGSTON, Jamaica — Rastafarian musician Yasus Afari was this afternoon threatened with being thrown out of Gordon House for refusing to stand during the opening proceedings as is customary during sittings of the Houses of Parliament.

The entertainer, who had arrived with a group of Rastafarians and sat in the gallery, remained seated as the mace was brought into the chamber and prayers said.

House speaker Pearnel Charles paused the proceedings to advise that all persons seated in the gallery were supposed to stand or they would be removed from the House. The proceedings continued but Afari did not budge.

National Security Minister Robert Montague could also be seen gesticulating for anyone seated to rise.

The Rastafarian community is paying keen attention to the debate on the bill ‘National Heroes and Other Freedom Fighters (Absolution from Criminal Liability in Respect of Specified Events)’, which continues in the House today.

Alphea Sauders