Massive Attack Respond to Singapore Ban Over Displaying Palestinian Flag
The trip-hop legends said they are "surprised and disappointed" by their treatment at the hands of Singaporean authorities last week. Massive Attack Respond to Singapore Ban Over Displaying Palestinian Flag Eddie Fu
Massive Attack expressed surprise and disappointment over their treatment by Singaporean authorities after members displayed the Palestinian flag during a July 29th concert. The band was detained, questioned, and had passports temporarily confiscated. The incident led to a ban on the group from entering Singapore, which is a violation of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act.
This act prohibits the public display of flags without a permit, carrying penalties of fines up to S$500 ($390), up to six months in jail, or both.
Despite being unaware of the act and a 2023 advisory by Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs, Massive Attack defended their actions, stating that the crowd organically led chants of "Free Palestine," and they did not anticipate any legal repercussions. The band expressed pride in their impromptu expression and saluted the courage of fans who showed solidarity with Palestinians facing illegal occupation, apartheid, and genocide.
They also emphasized the importance of defending universal human rights and freedom of expression, referencing similar arrests of peaceful protestors in the UK for holding up signs protesting genocide.
Massive Attack called on Singapore's government to ratify the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, allowing citizens to express their conscience without fear of state prosecution. The group has previously supported musicians facing censorship for pro-Palestine views and noted that Del Naja was arrested in London while participating in a pro-Palestine protest.
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