SEND HIM TO JAIL
P. Polar 11/10/04
Published as: Take note, you calypsonians Trinidad Guardian 20.10.04
The Editor: I have been to several of Relator’s performances and I have nothing but praise for Relator as a gentleman and as an artist. It is a shame that Mr. Afong resorted to violence after a little picong. It seems many of our noted public figures have short fuses. Being in the Carnival buisness for so many years, Mr. Afong should understand that calypsonians are allowed freedom of expression, once there is a melody. This freedom is sacrosanct if the artform is to remain a vehicle of grassroot’s expression.
That being said, many calypsonians, through their political commentary, take advantage of this freedom and extend picong into slander and outright racism. Indo-Trinidadian politicians and the Indo-Trinidadian population are often the recipients of these abuses. If it were quid pro quo then I would not make an issue of it, but as many other persons have pointed out, there is absolute silence by calypso fraternity with regards to the corruption and blatant mismanagement by the government of the day. If political commentary has become purely an Afro-Trinidadian political tool, promoting racial disharmony, then I am spending my 50 cents on 50 Cent.
The way the law treats with Mr. Afong will set a precedent. If this matter is treated lightly, then it has become acceptable to retaliate with violence against calypsonians. I can see that Mr. Panday’s “Indian youths who are ready to shed blood” will have several calypsonians in mind this Carnival.
Author's note: Written in response to Mr. Afong’s "cuff down” of Relator and Mr. Panday regrettable statement.