Former Prime Minister of Jamaica Portia Simpson Miller Suffering From Dementia

Former Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller is living with dementia. The confirmation came from her husband and long-time confidant, Errald Miller, during a rare and emotional recent interview.

The revelation, made on the 17th of September, coincided with Simpson Miller being honoured with one of Cuba’s highest accolades, the Medal of Friendship, presented at the Cuban Embassy in Kingston.

Simpson Miller, now 79, made history as Jamaica’s first female prime minister, serving from 2006–2007 and again from 2012–2016. She also led the opposition twice and was the first woman to head the People’s National Party (PNP), serving as president from 2006 until her retirement in 2017.

Errald Miller, who describes himself as her “chief protector”, said he has devoted his life to her care, putting aside other opportunities. “That’s my life. I live for nothing else but her at this time,” he shared, emphasising his role as her full-time caregiver.

Simpson Miller has not appeared at recent PNP campaign events and has largely withdrawn from public life in recent years. Her husband’s disclosure comes as the world marks World Alzheimer’s Day, part of the wider World Alzheimer’s Month, observed every September to raise awareness of dementia-related illnesses.

For many Jamaicans, the news marks a poignant moment, reminding the nation of the enduring legacy and trailblazing leadership of “Sista P”, even as she now faces this deeply personal health battle.