The long-running legal battle between ska legend Derrick Morgan and his daughter, reggae singer Queen Ifrica, has gathered momentum after a Supreme Court judge ordered that the matter be fast-tracked, setting a pre-trial hearing for December 11.
The decision marks a significant development in one of Jamaica’s most high-profile entertainment lawsuits, with the Tougher Than Tough singer seeking damages over what he contends were false and defamatory statements made publicly by his daughter.
Morgan’s attorney, Charles “Advoket” Ganga-Singh, declined to comment on the proceedings, citing the sub judice rule, which limits public discussion of matters before the courts.
However, Derrick Morgan’s son, Merrick Morgan, welcomed the court’s decision to expedite the case, saying it would allow his father an opportunity to defend his reputation while he is still able to do so.
“The judge may have taken into account my father’s advanced age and his medical condition, so we’re extremely grateful that the case has been called up so quickly so that my father can finally clear his name of these wild, defamatory accusations,” Merrick Morgan said.
The accelerated timetable comes against the backdrop of growing concern over the health of Jamaica’s pioneering musicians. More than 20 prominent members of the local music fraternity have died over the past 19 months. Derrick Morgan, now 86, is reportedly in stable health despite being blind and having survived cancer.
The lawsuit stems from a series of social media videos and media interviews
