A Trinidad and Tobago-based promotion company has filed a civil lawsuit against Jamaican dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel over the cancellation of the deejay’s scheduled performance at the One Caribbean Music Festival last May, according to reports in the twin island republic.

Jacho Entertainment Limited filed the lawsuit in the High Court of Justice last Tuesday, alleging breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and defamation, among other claims, reported CNC3 News.

According to the article, the promotion company is seeking damages in excess of TT$7.3 million, in addition to the recovery of US$1.1 million allegedly already paid to Kartel, real name Adidja Palmer, under a performance agreement.

CNC3 News reports that Jacho Entertainment alleges it entered into a written agreement with Kartel on November 22, 2024, under which he was contracted to headline the event – originally planned for February 28, 2025 but later rescheduled to May 31 – for a fee of US$1.35 million, which was payable in four instalments.

The promoter reportedly claimed that by May 29, 2025, approximately 81 per cent of the contracted fee had been paid, leaving a balance of US$250,000, which it intended to settle upon the artiste’s arrival in Trinidad. However, according to the company, temporary foreign exchange constraints affected the timing of the final payment, but the funds were available on the day of the event.

It is alleged that Kartel failed to board his scheduled flight to Trinidad and demanded full payment prior to arrival, which was not a condition required under the agreement.

Kartel subsequently announced the cancellation of his performance via social media. According to the promoter, he did so without issuing a formal written notice as stipulated in the contract.

The promoter reportedly said it was forced to absorb substantial costs in refunds to disgruntled ticket holders as well as other costs and reputational damage as a result of the cancellation. It said statements by Kartel alleging mismanagement on its part further damaged the company’s reputation.

According to the article, Jacho Entertainment said legal action was pursued after months of unsuccessful efforts at settlement.

The company is seeking all monies paid, special and general damages, an injunction restraining further alleged defamatory statements, and interest and costs.