09/06/2026
Power 102.1FM - Times Caribbean Brooklyn Carnival Marred by Controversy Surrounding Haitian Bands' No-Show: T-Vice Breaks Silence, TonyMix and Sakpase Challenge Suspension
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK — Three popular Haitian music groups—T‑Vice, TonyMix and SakPase—will not participate in this year’s West Indian American Day Carnival along Eastern Parkway following a dispute over event regulations.
The West Indian American Day Carnival Association reportedly said the groups were suspended after failing to comply with safety, capacity and costume requirements during previous appearances. Representatives of TonyMix and SakPase, however, strongly dispute those explanations.
TonyMix manager Johnny Joseph said his truck began last year’s parade with approximately 15 people aboard. According to Joseph, additional revellers later climbed onto the vehicle despite security measures.
He also rejected claims that TonyMix failed to present costumed participants, saying he has photographs showing members dressed for the celebration. Joseph expressed concern that he was not notified about the reported suspension until August, when registration was attempted.
James “007” Francois, CEO of Sak Pase Nation, similarly described the association’s stated reasons as unfounded. He denied that the band exceeded capacity limits or appeared without costumes. Francois also alleged that political considerations and unfair treatment may have influenced the decision. Those allegations have not been independently confirmed.
WIADCA Board Secretary Cecille Ford denied any anti-Haitian bias, maintaining that the suspensions were based solely on established carnival regulations.
“They did not follow the WIADCA rules, which are clearly outlined,” Ford said, according to published reports.
T‑Vice manager Jessie Al‑Khal later issued a separate clarification, saying the band was not absent because of a permit dispute. She said T‑Vice collectively chose not to participate because of Haiti’s continuing political and humanitarian challenges, security concerns and uncertainty surrounding Temporary Protected Status for Haitians living in the United States.
“Our decision should therefore not be misrepresented as a permit issue,” the statement said. “We chose not to participate.”
Mickael Marabou, WIADCA’s Haitian community liaison, said efforts would continue to address the committee’s concerns and support the bands’ possible return next year.
The dispute has generated significant discussion within Brooklyn’s Haitian community, where the three groups have played visible roles in Labor Day celebrations. Still, organizers insist the carnival remains committed to presenting Haitian culture as part of the wider Caribbean showcase.
The New York Carnival Parade returns to Eastern Parkway on Monday, September 7, with enhanced security and contingents representing communities from across the Caribbean. Le Nouvelliste, ABC7 New York
