Omar Souleyman till Way Out West

Efter inställda spelningen på Stockholm Music & Arts – nu kommer en ny chans.

Omar Souleyman skulle ha gästat Stockholm Music & Arts, men gavs inte visum av det svenska konsulatet. Missnöjet växte sig snabbt och historien blev en världsnyhet. Nu har Luger valt att boka honom ännu en gång, den här gången till Way Out West, frågan är om de svenska myndigheterna ser över sin syn och släpper in honom i landet.

Omar berättar själv om situationen:

”I could not believe the reason for which my visa was denied – that of Sweden being afraid that I will want to stay there and apply for a residence permit when I arrive. I am a musician who travels all over the world and to all western countries to sing for people and to make them dance.I have never ever had any wish or intention to remain in any country that has issued me a visa that enables me to perform for people there. It is clear to anyone who will take a look at my extensive touring history for the last 5 years in the western world – where I have been and how many borders I have crossed. Hundreds and hundreds.

I have a family in Syria and I have no intention of ever abandoning them. The Embassy had the information clearly of all my children, wife, brothers and sisters, parents, who all live in Syria. I support them and give my life for them. I have never had nor will he ever have any intention to defect into Sweden. I love my home as troubled as it is right now, more than anything.

 The decision of the Consulate is very wrong but I have accepted that; now I hope that my management will do everything together with promoters in Sweden to correct that.”