Nicki Minaj plays gig in Angola despite protests over country’s human rights violations

The concert was promoted by controversial President Jose Eduardo dos Santos

Nicki Minaj performed a gig in Angola this weekend despite controversy overo the country’s poor human rights record.

Minaj headlined the country’s Christmas festival, Show Unitel Boas Festas, on Saturday (December 19) in the Angolan capital of Luanda. The concert was reportedly promoted by a company part owned by President Jose Eduardo dos Santos.

Angola has been ruled by dos Santos since 1979, who has been dogged by allegations of corruption in the past. The country’s government has also been accused of oppression and intimidation.

Advertisement

Posting photos and video to Instagram following her trip to Angola, Minaj wrote that the country “has my heart”. See below.

Reppin the flag on my back. ANGOLA I LOVE UUUUUUUUUUUUU. THANK UUUUUUUU!!!!!!!! Muuuuaaahhhhhhh!!!!!!!

A photo posted by Nicki Minaj (@nickiminaj) on

‼️‼️‼️

A video posted by Nicki Minaj (@nickiminaj) on

Human Rights Foundation head Thor Halvorssen had recently written to Minaj to ask her to cancel her appearance in the country.

The letter read: “Ms. Minaj, you are well known for being involved with charities such as the Get Schooled Foundation, which helps motivate young people to graduate from high school and succeed in college. If you move forward with this performance for the dictator and his family, you will be in league with the people stealing educational resources and opportunity from young Angolans.”

Advertisement

Halvorssen also highlighted the plight of Angolan hip-hop artist Luaty Beirao, who was arrested in June after attending a meeting that discussed democracy in the country.

Minaj also recently made headlines after her brother was charged with allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl.

You May Also Like

Advertisement

TRENDING

Advertisement

More Stories