National MP Gerry Brownlee has apologised to outgoing Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern after his social media account liked a tweet describing her as “one of the most hated leaders of modern times” and a “tyrant”.
In a statement, Brownlee said he became aware of the online interaction this afternoon. It is understood a staffer with access to Brownlee’s account liked the tweet, and not the MP himself.
He called the post “unacceptable”.
“The personalisation of politics is not something I would ever do. The way the Prime Minister has been treated online is appalling. I have apologised unreservedly to her office for my account being used in this way.
“I’m taking steps to reconsider the management of my social media accounts. This is an employment matter and it is being treated on that basis.”