Yung Bredda: I got no money for OPM luncheon

Entertainer Yung Bredda, whose real name is Akhenaton Lewis, has said he was not paid for his performance at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) Christmas luncheon, amid criticism from the Opposition that the Government is spending excessively on events while many citizens continue to face economic hardship.

The luncheon was held last Friday at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s, where OPM staff were treated to lunch and entertainment. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar attended the event, along with Minister of Public Utilities Barry Padarath and Senator Darrell Allahar, who also serves as a Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister.

The event came under public scrutiny after Opposition MP Stuart Young shared photographs from the luncheon on social media on Saturday. Among the images posted was one showing the Prime Minister alongside Yung Bredda, prompting questions and criticism about the cost of entertainment at the function.

Responding to the controversy, Yung Bredda publicly disclosed that he received no payment for performing at the event. His statement sought to clarify speculation surrounding the luncheon and to address claims that public funds were used to pay entertainers as part of what the Opposition has described as unnecessary government spending.

The entertainer’s disclosure has added a new dimension to the debate, as political tensions continue over Government expenditure priorities, particularly during a period when many Trinidad and Tobago citizens are grappling with rising living costs and financial strain.

Despite the backlash, the OPM luncheon was described as a staff appreciation event, held as part of the Christmas season. However, the issue has reignited broader discussions about public spending, transparency, and the optics of government-hosted events during challenging economic times.