Arnhem issues permits for Ye's shows next week despite "reprehensible statements"

American rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, will be allowed to perform at the GelreDome stadium in Arnhem next week. The municipality has granted an event permit for both shows.

According to Arnhem Mayor Ahmed Marcouch, Ye’s performances have “understandably caused a great deal of commotion and reactions” due to the “reprehensible statements” the rapper made in the past. Marcouch said on Thursday that Ye’s statements were “morally and possibly legally reprehensible,” but added that mayors cannot make decisions “based solely on personal or societal disapproval.”

Marchouch said that, as mayor, he is only allowed to look at things like public order, security, fire safety, and traffic around the football stadium. According to the mayor, all of that is well-organized. There are also no indications that the performances could disrupt public order, Marcouch said.

If Ye says something during his performances that is potentially punishable, it is up to the Public Prosecution Service (OM) to assess whether he should be prosecuted for it, Marcouch said.

Ye is performing on Friday, June 6, and Monday, June 8. The artist has made antisemitic remarks on multiple occasions, including releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler,” praising the German Nazi leader, and selling T-shirts with a swastika on them via his website.

The rapper’s concerts have been canceled in Poland and France, among other countries. The United Kingdom refused to let him into the country. He was scheduled to perform at the Wireless Festival in London, which was canceled following Ye’s entry ban.