Somali-Canadian rapper K’naan, internationally known for his hit song “Wavin’ Flag”, has been charged with one count of sexual assault stemming from an incident in July 2010. The charge sheet was filed at the Quebec City courthouse on Thursday, revealing the accusation against the artist, whose real name is Keinan Abdi Warsame.
The alleged assault reportedly occurred between July 16 and July 17, 2010, coinciding with K’naan’s performance at the Festival d’été de Québec, a renowned summer music festival. The victim, whose identity is protected, was 29 years old at the time.
K’naan, who was born in Somalia and raised in Toronto, is currently residing in Brooklyn, New York, according to court documents. While the case was brought before the court, the rapper was not present during the proceedings, and his legal representatives have yet to issue a formal statement on the matter.
This news comes just days after K’naan was honored with the Cultural Impact Award at Canada’s SOCAN Awards for the lasting global influence of “Wavin’ Flag”, a song celebrated for its role in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and its resonance as a message of hope and unity.
The case continues to unfold, and further legal developments are expected. The allegations against K’naan have sparked widespread media attention, given his prominence in the music industry and his role as a global cultural figure.
