Popular Gambian musician An2 was scheduled to perform at the Kudang Cultural Festival in Niamina Kudang. However, just hours before his arrival, tensions within the village led to his performance being unexpectedly blocked.
According to one of the event organizers, a group of elders and some youths opposed An2’s appearance at the festival. “It was really disappointing,” the organizer said. “Some elders and young people refused to let him perform.”
When asked why, the organizer explained: “They were the first to book An2 but couldn’t reach an agreement with him. When they heard we successfully signed a deal with him, they turned against us.”
The organizer claimed that the opposing group later booked another artist, Jali Batch, and feared An2’s presence would overshadow their event.
“They said if An2 performed, all the young people would go to his show instead,” he added.
Those reportedly involved in blocking An2’s performance include Talibo Ceesay, Futa Camara, Kemesseng Marenah, Saikou Saidy, Ba Saikou Ceesay, Talikona, and Banfa Marenah.
Despite the controversy, An2 briefly stayed in Kudang and took time to see the mother of one of his Sparky Gang members before leaving.