ERC calls for apology from Vybz Kartel and Baby Skello, broadcast ban on songs

Dear Editor,
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) wishes to provide an update on two ongoing matters involving religiously insensitive content in separate songs by the artistes Vybz Kartel and Baby Skello, which have been deemed offensive to the Christian and Hindu communities, respectively Ahead of the scheduled performance of Jamaican artiste Vybz Kartel in Guyana on May 24, 2025 the Commission formally wrote to the event organizers, Hits and Jams Entertainment, requesting to meet on the matter. Regrettably, as of the date of this statement, the ERC has not received any response from Hits and Jams regarding this request. In addition, the ERC has written to the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) referencing provisions under the Broadcasting Act. The Commission urged the GNBA to prohibit the broadcast of the song ‘Good Like Jesus’ by Vybz Kartel across radio and television platforms due to its offensive and divisive nature. Furthermore, the ERC calls on Vybz Kartel to issue a public apology to the people of Guyana, particularly the Christian community, for the offensive and insensitive content contained in the referenced song. The Commission also takes this opportunity to correct inaccurate media reports which suggested that the ERC was responsible for the arrest of Mr. Daniel Wharton, also known by his stage name Baby Skello. The ERC wishes to inform the public that a letter was dispatched to Mr. Wharton, requesting his presence at the Commission in relation to a song released by him that has raised public concern over its derogatory content. To date, Mr. Wharton has not made contact with the Commission. The ERC reiterates its call for Mr. Wharton ‘Baby Skello’ to come forward and make contact with the Commission urgently to address this important matter. The Commission notes with deep disappointment the increase in religiously and ethnically insensitive content being produced and disseminated. Therefore, the ERC calls on all stakeholders to think and act more responsibly in the generation of content that is circulated in our plural society. The ERC remains committed to its constitutional mandate of promoting harmony and mutual respect among all ethnic groups in Guyana. The Commission continues to urge all stakeholders, including entertainers and broadcasters, to act responsibly and with consideration for Guyana’s rich ethnic diversity and commitment to national unity.

Sincerely,
Ethnic Relations
Commission