The Jamaican government was mandated to pay Vybz Kartel’s legal bills when his conviction appeal was granted.

Following the recent ruling by the UK Privy Council to overturn their 2014 murder convictions, famous dancehall artist Vybz Kartel and his three co-accused have an official order from King Charles III of Jamaica to pay their legal fees.

The formal directive, which was obtained by Jamaica’s Observer from Kartel’s attorney, Isat Buchanan, states that it follows the decision to overturn the convictions of Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell, Kahira Jones, Andre St. John, and Vybz Kartel (Adijah Palmer), who were serving time for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.

“His Majesty was pleased by and with the advice of His Privy Council to approve the report and to order that those charged with administering the Government of Jamaica and all others whom it may concern are to ensure that it is punctually observed and obeyed,” stated the order, which was dated April 10, 2024, and signed by a Privy Council clerk.

Four recommendations from the Privy Council were included in the order:

(1) It is appropriate to grant the appeal;

(2) Due to juror misconduct, the appellants’ convictions ought to be overturned;

(3) The matter ought to be sent to the Court of Appeal so that it can determine whether to mandate a new trial as soon as it is practically possible;

(4) If an agreement cannot be reached, the Respondent shall reimburse the Appellants’ costs.

The case was returned to the local Court of Appeal in March after the convictions were overturned.

On June 10, the Court of Appeal will meet to discuss whether or not to order a retrial or to release the men.

After spending 35 years of his sentence, Kartel was given a life term in jail with the possibility of release in April 2014. His fellow defendants received life sentences as well; Shawn Storm, Jones, and St. John will be eligible for parole after 25 and 15 years, respectively.