The Privy Council’s decision to quash dancehall star Vybz Kartel’s conviction on Thursday, March 14, will not go without a response from the dancehall community, says socio-cultural analyst Dr Donna Hope.

Speaking with Our Today, Hope explained that she has already been informed that many of the dancehall parties tonight into this weekend will, instead, be celebratory parties in light of the ruling.

Since 2011, when Kartel was first placed behind bars, “Free Worl Boss”, referencing the desire to see Kartel’s freedom, has been a mantra among his fan base across social media.

The artiste, whose birth name is Adidja Palmer, throughout his career, has been recognised as a hero-like figure in the dancehall community and his native community, Waterford, Portmore in St. Catherine.

He was arguably the number one dancehall artiste during his era and has largely influenced dancehall and other music throughout the region.

Hope said it is unsurprising that many are taking a celebratory stance. She predicts new dancehall songs to be released by current dancehall artistes will reflect their views on the ruling and the Jamaican justice system to begin by the end of the week.

“To a lot of people from within his fan base. This ruling will bring a level of jubilation, because from their perspective (is that) the justice system has erred,” said Hope.