President Irfaan Ali yesterday assured the nation that there would be a full, independent investigation into the sinking of the MV Barima, while urging Guyanese to refrain from speculation and political division as search and recovery efforts continue.
Ali returned to Guyana on Sunday night after cutting short a visit to Canada following the tragedy. Prime Minister Mark Phillips had said the President had departed on Thursday for business engagements in Canada. No official announcement had been issued before his departure.
In a national address after visiting survivors and families in Region One, Ali described Saturday’s disaster as “a tragedy of immense proportions.”
“Our nation has been plunged into a tragedy of immense proportions. The capsizing of the MV Barima has pierced the heart of our nation, leaving us united in grief, anxiety and sorrow,” he said.
The President said he visited survivors, relatives of some of those still missing in Port Kaituma and Mabaruma, and patients receiving treatment at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital.
“It was a deeply emotional experience. I listened to their stories, shared in their pain and anxiety, and assured them that every practical measure would be taken to provide the support and assistance they need at this time,” he said.
Ali said the government’s immediate priority remained saving lives, supporting survivors, comforting grieving families and accounting for every person still missing.
“Every minute matters, every life matters, and every possible resource is being mobilised in pursuit of this mission,” he said.
He praised those involved in the search and rescue operation, including Prime Minister Phillips, Cabinet members, the Joint Services, emergency responders, regional officials, volunteers, fisherfolk, community members, religious leaders, Members of Parliament, the private sector, civil society organisations and international partners.
According to the President, the response represented “the very best of Guyana” and demonstrated the country’s unity in the face of tragedy.
Ali assured the public that every available resource was being deployed and that rescue and recovery operations would continue until every possible avenue had been exhausted.
He also pledged a “full, thorough and independent investigation” into the circumstances surrounding the sinking.
“The families affected, and indeed the people of Guyana, deserve answers. They deserve to know precisely what transpired and whether any failures contributed to this heartbreaking event. We will pursue the truth with transparency, impartiality and accountability,” he said.
At the same time, the President appealed for restraint as investigations proceed.
“But now is not the time for speculation. It is not the time to cast aspersions or to politicise a tragedy that has brought such unspeakable pain to so many. There will be a time for facts, for accountability and for measured judgment,” he said.
He urged Guyanese to instead focus on supporting affected families, survivors and rescuers.
The President said the coming days would be difficult for the country but expressed confidence that Guyanese would draw strength from their unity, faith and resilience.
Ali also disclosed that an announcement would be made on the form of national mourning to be observed in honour of those affected by the tragedy.
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