A special quarterfinal run-off for the INET Party Monarch competition will take place tonight at 7pm on Redcliffe Street, just ahead of the Jam Session.
Twelve artistes—six in each category—will compete for two remaining spots in the semifinals. The Groovy line-up includes Young Vice, Zamoni, Vicious, Sazzy Sazelle, Sammie C, and Natural Rampler. In the Jumpy category: Johnny Come Lately, Blade, Kid Fresh, Ebony T, Buttaz, and Naycha Kid.
The run-off follows public outcry over two artistes being fast-tracked to the semifinals despite missing the official quarterfinals earlier this month at Jack Idle due to overseas commitments. Their advancement sparked concern among fellow competitors and fans.
In response, the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) met with the National Soca Fraternity on 4 July. The Fraternity proposed a resolution: the two controversial qualifiers and the next five highest-ranking artistes from each category (places 16–20) would compete again in a judged live performance round.
The compromise was accepted by the Minister of Festivals, Daryll Matthew, and the ABFC, with support from all parties involved.
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Glad to see a fair solution put in place. Everyone deserves a level playing field. May the best performers shine tonight
Not ideal, but at least the run-off gives everyone a fair shot. Let’s hope this doesn’t become a yearly drama.