Singapore has banned the two core members of the British band Massive Attack from reentering the country following a pro-Palestinian display during a concert last week. The ban was issued after the musicians unfurled a Palestinian flag and one of them voiced support for the Palestinian cause on stage.
Singapore police stated that the individuals were investigated for their actions during the July 29 concert. They received stern warnings and were subsequently blacklisted from returning to the city-state. Authorities indicated that such acts could potentially harm racial and religious harmony, urging foreigners to avoid importing foreign politics to maintain social cohesion and respect the rule of law.
While the police did not officially name the members involved, media footage identified them as Robert “3D” Del Naja and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall. In response, Massive Attack released a statement on Instagram expressing surprise and disappointment over the decision. The band noted that chants of “Free Palestine” had occurred from large sections of the audience before and after their performance.
Massive Attack stated they did not anticipate that displaying the flag would violate any laws but were proud to have made an "impromptu expression" of solidarity with their fans in Singapore. The band called on the Singaporean government to permit its citizens to express their conscience without fear of state persecution.