Bezan Denounces Music Video Glorifying Taliban Terrorists

7/5/2012

Selkirk, MB - James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake has denounced a song and music video by Canadian rapper Manu Militari glorifying Taliban terrorists in Afghanistan. The shocking video includes a re-enactment of a roadside bomb attack on a Canadian military vehicle and the murder of Canadian soldiers.

“I am disgusted by Manu Militari's music video.  It is outrageous, offensive, and I denounce it in the strongest terms.  Our men and women in uniform have fought with dedication and valour, sacrificing their lives in defence of the values that we hold dear. Canadian soldiers have been fighting in Afghanistan for over 10 years now.  This music video shows an utter lack of sensitivity to the families of the 158 brave Canadians who have sacrificed everything for our country,” said Bezan.

"Mr. Militari had the chance to show his support for the members of the Canadian Forces and their contributions to peace and security in Afghanistan, and helping to rebuild this war-torn nation.  Instead he decided to glorify Taliban terrorists, which was done in both bad taste and lack of discernment, and is disrespectful towards the great men and women who proudly serve our country," Bezan stated.

Rapper Manu Militari was funded by MusicAction, an independent organization that receives funding from Heritage Canada.  MusicAction solely made the decision to fund the music video by Manu Militari.  Heritage Canada has a funding agreement with this organization, which contains very specific conditions that must be met at all times. MusicAction's contribution to this group does not meet the conditions for Government of Canada funding.