Why Harry and Meghan’s Surprise Appearance Left Jamaican PM Panic-Calling King Charles
Jamaican ambassador Theresa Roberts claimed Prime Minister Andrew Holness feared the Sussexes’ public engagement might be seen as a political statement.
Last January, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were invited by Paramount CEO Brian Robbins to attend a film premiere in Jamaica. During the event, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were photographed with Prime Minister Andrew Holness. While their photo appeared innocent, Holness was reportedly concerned the public might see the Sussexes' engagement as a political statement.
Theresa Roberts, who Jamaica's ambassador for culture to the UK, told the Daily Mail that Holness allegedly called King Charles to clarify the situation and stress that he had not invited the Sussexes to the event. "They [Meghan and Harry] were invited to attend, but not by the Prime Minister. He became the centre of attention because it was said that he was 'coszing up' with Meghan and Harry...He couldn't believe how much stick he got about being with Harry when he didn't invite them." She continued, "The Prime Minister doesn't want to be [involved in] royal politics abroad. He wants to focus on business at home and didn't realize there was going to be a backlash."
She added, "We all had to try to make it known to Charles that it was not the case that the Prime Minister was cozying up to Harry. He did say he didn't expect to be caught up in that thing because he had nothing to do with it." Referring to Markle's past allegations of racism against the royal family, she opined, "It's quite the opposite. Those people wouldn't want to offend anyone in all the world...They'd die if they offended you. They wouldn't know how to be racist."
Holness, who was re-elected for a third term last week, had expressed an interest in Jamaica becoming a republic. Roberts revealed that the timing of the Prime Minister's photo with Harry and Markle was especially awkward because he had spoken of Jamaica 'moving on' to become a republic after a 2022 visit to the country with Prince William. She also stressed that Holness had 'great respect' for the King and did not want to be 'caught up' in the scandal. As for the movie premiere, Holness's attendance highlighted the cultural importance of the film, which celebrates the life and legacy of reggae icon Bob Marley. He had stressed that the premiere was a proud occasion for both Jamaica and the global community.
Meanwhile, as for Harry and Markle's attendance at the event, the pair engaged in conversations with attendees, including Marley’s son, Ziggy Marley. Their presence highlighted their support for the film and their involvement in the entertainment industry. Currently, Harry is in the UK to attend the WellChild Awards along with other engagements supporting charitable causes for children. Meanwhile, Markle remains in Montecito, California, with their two children. While reports speculate that Harry may reunite with Charles in London, no official plans have been confirmed so far.
