🚨 “Backlash Erupts: Jamaican MP Slammed for Playing Controversial Anti-Gay Song at Political Rally”
Equality for All blasts MP Daryl Vaz for using TOK’s ‘Chi Chi Man’ at rally, calling it a dangerous endorsement of anti-LGBTQ+ violence.
Human Rights Group Slams MP Daryl Vaz for Endorsing Anti-Gay Song at Public Political Rally
In a move that has sparked widespread criticism across social media and the human rights community, West Portland Member of Parliament Daryl Vaz is under fire for ending his speech at a recent political event with a controversial and homophobic track.
During the South East Clarendon constituency conference held on Sunday, Vaz chose to close his address with the 2001 hit “Chi Chi Man” by dancehall group TOK — a track notorious for promoting violence against gay men.
The song’s title, “Chi Chi Man,” is a derogatory slur targeting members of the LGBTQ+ community. Its repeated use in public spheres has long been a point of contention for human rights advocates in Jamaica and abroad.
The Equality for All Foundation Jamaica (formerly J-FLAG) has swiftly condemned Vaz’s actions, describing them as “deeply troubling” and “a dangerous step backward” in the fight for equal rights in Jamaica.
“We are disappointed and alarmed that a sitting Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister would choose to promote a song known for inciting violence against LGBTQ+ persons,” said Glenroy Murray, Executive Director of the foundation.
Murray also emphasised the broader implications for Jamaican politics and society, warning that such public endorsements undermine progress and send the wrong message to youth and the international community.
The Foundation is urging the Office of the Political Ombudsman to issue a public reprimand and enforce clear boundaries on the use of discriminatory language at political events.
“Homophobia and discrimination have no place in governance. We call on Mr. Vaz to issue an immediate and unreserved apology,” the Foundation declared.
So far, no formal statement has been released by Vaz regarding the incident, but public pressure continues to mount, especially from digital platforms and civil society organisations.
As Jamaica positions itself on the global stage, actions like these continue to spark debates about freedom of expression, human rights, and the responsibilities of public figures in shaping a more inclusive society.
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