KINGSTON, Jamaica — Tuesday, November 10, 2026: The Jamaican Government has denied claims that it offered to cover outstanding performance fees for international rapper Cardi B to secure her appearance at a proposed concert at the National Stadium.
The denial follows statements made by Cardi B during an Instagram Live rant on Monday, in which she reportedly revealed that the Government had intervened in negotiations to ensure the concert went ahead.
According to the rapper, the Government had even offered to settle the outstanding balance of her performance fee. However, Cardi B said she declined the offer because the situation had already become “too much” for her, ultimately deciding not to proceed with the performance.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport categorically rejected suggestions that public funds had been offered or committed to the event.
“The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport wishes to make clear to the public that the Government of Jamaica made no commitment or payment towards appearance fees or any fees whatsoever, in relation to a proposed concert in Jamaica which was expected to feature international recording artiste, Cardi B,” the ministry stated.
The ministry further emphasised that the proposed concert was strictly a private undertaking.
“The event was a private commercial engagement in which the Government was not involved,” the statement continued.
The Government also pointed to its ongoing efforts to redirect public resources towards recovery following Hurricane Melissa, explaining that Prime Minister Andrew Holness had already instructed that funds be shifted towards rebuilding efforts where possible.
“Even before recent directives from Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness in relation to the reprioritisation of expenditure to accelerate Hurricane Melissa recovery, the Prime Minister had already directed that where possible funds be reallocated to supporting recovery exercises,” the ministry said.
Despite distancing itself from the proposed concert, the Government maintained that it remains supportive of Jamaica’s entertainment industry and recognises its contribution to tourism and economic development.
“The Government of Jamaica remains committed to supporting the growth of its entertainment and cultural industries, including initiatives that strengthen the country’s international profile, stimulate tourism and generate economic opportunities for Jamaicans,” the statement added.
However, the ministry stressed that spending on entertainment events must take a back seat as the country continues its recovery and reconstruction efforts.
“However, the Government is at this time constrained to limit expenditure on events, as the main focus is on prioritising recovery and reconstruction efforts following Hurricane Melissa.”
The ministry’s statement did not specifically address whether any informal discussions had taken place concerning the event, but maintained that no Government commitment or payment had been made towards the concert or the rapper’s fees.
