The halftime performer at Super Bowl LIX who began protesting after unfolding a pro-Palestinian flag on the Caesars Superdome field in New Orleans has been found guilty in court, and is now facing a fine and potential time in jail.
According to a report from the Associated Press, the guilty charge against Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu was for resisting police.
The 41-year-old Nantambu could potentially receive a fine of $500, while also getting up to six months of prison time. Nantambu’s sentencing is scheduled for June 1. (RELATED: San Francisco Giants Players Thrusting Each Other In Celebration Is So Fitting For One Of America’s Gayest Cities)
Initially, Nantambu was supposed to be in the Super Bowl halftime show Feb. 9, 2025 that was being performed by rapper Kendrick Lamar. However, he ended up going off-script after pulling out a Sudan and Palestinian flag, with the two nations being sewn to each other. From there, he waved the flag while running on the field.
Nantambu was chased down by law enforcement and security personnel, but didn’t comply with the authorities’ demands, per Louisiana State Police.
Pro-Palestine Super Bowl LIX protestor convicted in court. FAFO, y’all https://t.co/5pRE9OZjBp
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) May 12, 2026
Ultimately, Nantambu surrendered and was taken to Orleans Parish Justice Center where he was booked on disturbing the peace by interruption of a lawful assembly and resisting an officer charges.
Recently, Chief Judge Juana Marine-Lombard found Nantambu guilty of just the misdemeanor charge of resisting an officer.
“We appreciate the chief judge’s careful consideration of the evidence and the decision to hold this individual accountable for resisting law enforcement officers who work every day to protect our communities,” said Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill in an official statement, per the Associated Press.
The sentencing for Nantambu could potentially result in no prison time, however, he’s already been harshly punished by the NFL.
Previously, the league banned Nantambu for life from all of their associated events in the future.