BASSTERRE, St. Kitts – THE curtains came down on Sugar Mas’ 41 on Wednesday evening (Jan. 2) with the much anticipated Las’ Lap, which was marred by the shooting of a male St. Johnson Villager and the stabbing death of a young man from Lime Kiln in St. Kitts.
The first of these two separate incidents occurred at 8:00 p.m. and the second one shortly after the scheduled time for Las’ Lap to end. Also, those who were prepared to have an enjoyable night at Party Central on Central Street had their ‘bubble’ busted because of the first incident which led law enforcements officers to bring the events to a premature end.
Additionally, on Boxing Day (Dec. 26) during J’Ouvert celebration, the event was interrupted after a fight broke out that involved more than 14 young men, who were reportedly armed with machetes, knives and stones.
This had caused many revellers on West Independence Square Street, between the National Bank and Pelican Mall, to scamper away and discontinue their merriment.
However, despite the issues of violence, many people, both visitors and nationals, undoubtedly enjoyed ‘Sugar Mas 41: Plenty Action, Plenty Fun’.
SKNVibes took to the streets Wednesday night to interact with spectators and revellers to find out: “How was Sugar Mas 41 for you?”
Below are the sentiments shared by some individuals.
John (national) and Tina (Germany living in St. Kitts for 4 years)
“This is the best Sugar Mas’ we’ve had in about 15 years. We were a part of Inferno J’Ouvert and also the Love Parade. It’s about the best organisation we’ve seen after 15 years but, with participation, people need to live up to it more and control themselves; not taking advantage of the freedom they have, that is, with the shootings. But apart from that, it was wonderful.”
Rudolph (former 70s mas’ player)
“The only issue I have is the late start of the troupes. I enjoyed myself. It was just the gaps, because even though it started late there were too much space. The children came out early and had to wait in the hot sun. Apart from that, I enjoyed myself.”
Stiffy Marshals
“Sugar Mas’? It was ok from J’Ouvert until January 1. But Las Lap now…I don’t like how they handle the situation with all the vendors who spend so much money. They lock off all the sounds and telling them that they have to make money somewhere else.”
Coamiette
“Sugar Mas’ to me was fun. I’m looking forward to next year. I was in Phunn Vybz with De Sugar Band and I did enjoy myself. I could have had more fun but they stopped the bands too early because of the shootings. I would like to tell all gang members to finish away with all this violence and try to be friends. I know they would not forget things of their past, but can forgive each other and try to make things right.”
AKB
“It was alright, just that it started late. In case of rain there needs to be some tents placed so that people can shelter, and also don’t punish everybody because of those who disrupt the festivity.”
Nikke
“J’Ouvert Morning was a wakeup call for all those who like to sleep at Carnival time. Sugar Mas’ was fun, mas, splendor, you name it. I enjoyed myself to the max with my Market Street girls…Avril, Latrice and Shabof. What fun! Hey! We sell off!”
