ERC summons ‘Baby Skello’, another artist over controversial songs
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has confirmed that it has summoned local artist Daniel Wharton, also known as “Baby Skello,” following his recent song, which contained what the Commission described as “blasphemous content” against the Hindu religion.
The ERC’s announcement comes days after Wharton was taken into Police custody after his song received a backlash from the public.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Commission said while it respects the Force’s independent role in investigating the case under existing laws, it will also seek to address the issue within its mandate and has not yet referred the matter to the police.
“The ERC wishes to clarify that this matter is also being addressed at the level of the ERC, and Baby Skello has been summoned to face the Commission,” the release stated.
The Commission further disclosed that artists Richard Singh and Vision Clake, known for their controversial song “Chiney don’t know who’s we,” have also been summoned to appear before the ERC.
The video, which features a staged robbery of a Chinese supermarket accompanied by lyrics appearing to glorify looting and defy security, has been widely condemned as racially insensitive and dangerous.
“We work towards addressing these issues within our mandate to promote harmony and good relations among all peoples of Guyana,” the Commission said.
The ERC has in the past referred several cases to the police following completed investigations, but clarified that none of the current matters have yet reached that stage.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, last evening disclosed that the President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has written to the Director of Public Prosecutions, copying him, asking that the DPP review and recommend criminal charges against Wharton.
