Jamaican dancehall sensation and icon Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, was released from prison on July 31, 2024, after serving 13 years. His release, following the overturning of his conviction by the Privy Council in London, has been overshadowed by a dramatic transformation in his health. Kartel is now battling Graves’ Disease, an autoimmune disorder that has caused his face to become noticeably swollen.
Despite the Privy Council’s decision to overturn his conviction, Jamaican authorities needed time to determine if he should face a retrial. The Jamaica Court of Appeal ultimately decided against a retrial for his 2014 murder conviction, paving the way for his release.
Kartel’s return has sparked significant concern and curiosity, particularly about his health. He now appears markedly different from his pre-incarceration days, with his features altered by a swollen face and other alarming changes.
His health issues are severe, involving significant thyroid and heart problems due to Graves’ Disease, which leads to hyperthyroidism. A medical affidavit obtained by FOX 5 in May 2023 revealed that his condition had worsened over time, and doctors have recommended urgent surgery due to the progression of his disease and associated heart troubles.
Dr. Karen Phillips, Kartel’s private physician, has emphasized the need for immediate surgery, noting that his thyroid condition has not improved with medication. Kartel’s visible health issues include a swollen neck and face, as described by his defense team: “His neck is so swollen that it’s like trying to fasten a shirt collar that’s way too tight. His face is puffy, and his glasses make his eyes appear protruding.”
Kartel’s legal troubles began in 2011 with his conviction for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, whose body was never found. The conviction, often referred to as the “World Boss” case, involved a dispute over two unreturned firearms and implicated co-defendants Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John. The harsh prison conditions, described as “inhumane” by human rights attorney Isat Buchanan, have exacerbated his health problems.
The Jamaica Court of Appeal’s recent decision not to order a retrial was influenced by the elapsed time since the crime, the unavailability of witnesses, and financial constraints.
As Vybz Kartel embarks on this new chapter, both his musical legacy and his serious health challenges are under intense scrutiny.
Background of Vybz Kartel’s Imprisonment
Vybz Kartel, also known as the “World Boss,” was imprisoned for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams in Jamaica, despite maintaining his innocence. In 2014, the trial revealed that Williams and another man, Lamar Chow, had been entrusted with two unlicensed firearms belonging to Kartel. When the men failed to return the guns, they were allegedly summoned to Kartel’s house in August 2011.
Chow testified that they were attacked at the house, and the last sighting of Williams was of him lying motionless on the ground. The house was destroyed by fire shortly afterward, and Williams’ body was never recovered.
Despite their claims of innocence, Kartel and his co-defendants—Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison, with Kartel receiving a minimum term of 35 years.
Notable Songs by Vybz Kartel
- “Clarks”
- “Rambo Kanambo”
- “Summer Time”
- “Romping Shop”
- “Conjugal Rights”
- “Fever”
- “Coloring Book”
- “Jeans and Fitted”
