Terrelonge ‘Regrets’ Post Obscuring Images of Former Prime Ministers

State Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alando Terrelonge says he regrets the pictures on his Instagram account that blocked out the faces of former Prime Ministers PJ Patterson and Portia Simpson Miller.

The controversial images have drawn widespread criticism.

Abigail Bartley has that story.

The pictures showed Minister Terrelonge in discussion with two members of the diaspora at the Jamaican High Commission in London.

The pictures bore the caption “Big tings happening in Jamaica. Taking the message to the diaspora. See you in Kingston, June 16-19”.

In the background were five portraits, each displaying photos of Prime Minister Andrew Holness, the late former Prime Minister Edward Seaga and former Prime Ministers PJ Patterson, Portia Simpson Miller and Bruce Golding.

An emoji with the Jamaican flag was used to block the images of Mr. Patterson and Mrs. Simpson Miller.

The editing of the images has caused controversy.

Mr. Terrelonge, in a move to clarify the posts, issued a statement on his X account that was accompanied by a picture of himself and Mrs. Simpson Miller smiling. The state minister says he did not make the posts and adds that they were not in keeping with his style of posting.

Mr. Terrelonge says he was advised that the stories were posted by one of his team members who has access to his social media accounts.

According to Mr. Terrelonge, he instructed the team member to immediately remove the content.

The State Minister also disclosed that he has rescinded the team member’s access to his social media accounts.

Mr. Terrelonge ended his statement by reiterating that he regrets that the posts were made and says it does not reflect his approach over the years.

In the meantime, the People’s National Party Youth Organisation, PNPYO, has condemned the photos on the state minister’s Instagram account.

In a statement to the media, the youth organisation noted that the action was not only disrespectful but also portrayed a reckless disregard for the principles of statesmanship and diplomacy.

The PNPYO says such behaviour was not only irresponsible but tribal and demeaning to the esteemed office that Terrelonge holds.

The youth organisation says as representatives of the Jamaican people, government officials should exemplify decorum and respect at all times, especially when engaging with matters of national importance.

Meanwhile, the PNPYO is urging Prime Minister Andrew Holness to swiftly implement the promised social media policy for government members.

The youth organisation says this policy is necessary to uphold the dignity of the government and country on the global stage and to prevent further embarrassment.