Arabic version: بيبسي تسحب رعايتها بسبب حجز كاني ويست لمهرجان وايرلس
Pepsi has said it is withdrawing its sponsorship of a UK music festival that is due to be headlined by Kanye West after Keir Starmer joined criticism of the event. Starmer described the booking as “deeply concerning”. According to The Guardian, Starmer’s comments come in light of West’s history of antisemitic remarks and controversial behavior.
West has faced condemnation for expressing admiration for Adolf Hitler and for releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler.” His booking has raised questions about whether he will even be allowed to enter the UK, as authorities have the power to block individuals whose presence is deemed not conducive to the public good. The festival is scheduled to take place in London’s Finsbury Park in July.
Political leaders, including Ed Davey of the Liberal Democrats, have called for the government to take action against West, emphasizing the need for a tougher stance on antisemitism. The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, could personally direct that West be excluded from the UK based on his past conduct.
The Jewish Leadership Council has also condemned the festival’s decision to book West, labeling it as “deeply irresponsible.” Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, expressed that allowing West to perform was an “absolutely the wrong decision.”
West previously issued an apology for his antisemitic remarks in January, attributing his behavior to a manic episode related to his bipolar disorder. As the festival approaches, significant uncertainties loom over its execution, especially in light of the backlash against West’s participation.
