Haiti musicians say they’re banned from Carnival

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti— At least three Haitian musical groups believe they have been banned from performing during Carnival because authorities consider their songs too critical of the government.

The bands say they were dropped from the lineup or made to feel unwelcome at performances for Haiti’s Carnival festivities that begin Sunday.

President Michel Martelly used to mock earlier Haitian governments during Carnival performances in his previous career as a musician.

Martelly said in a radio interview Saturday that one of the bands, Brothers Posse, didn’t meet criteria for performing. He said the group wasn’t able to generate “ambiance.”

He also said Carnival is not a time for protests.

The band’s song criticizes Martelly for not fulfilling promises.