Terrelonge: Artistes have responsibility to ensure criticism of Gov’t rooted in truth, fairness

November 4, 2026

“The partnership between Government and artistes is a two-way street, and artistes carry a profound responsibility.”

That’s the message from State Minister of Foreign Affairs Alando Terrelonge, as public debate intensifies over entertainers’ role in holding the Government accountable.

Terrelonge’s remarks come amid public outrage after Dancehall artiste Beenie Man criticised the Government’s handling of funds for Hurricane Melissa relief on an international platform.

Speaking at the launch of the Forever 1NE Music Festival at Caymanas Park in Portmore, St. Catherine, Terrelonge acknowledged that Reggae and Dancehall have never been about blind compliance.

He noted that the genres have historically served as powerful platforms for social justice, resistance to oppression and unfiltered commentary on the State.

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Terrelonge maintained that with that influence comes an equally significant responsibility to ensure that criticism is rooted in truth and fairness.

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