Dozens of University of Guyana students yesterday staged a silent protest outside the Office of the President, calling for the removal of Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar over the July 18 sinking of the MV Barima, which claimed the lives of 73 people and left dozens missing.
The demonstration, organised under the banner “We the People”, saw largely Generation Z protesters standing in solemn silence while holding placards demanding accountability for Guyana’s deadliest maritime disaster.
Organisers said that the protest was independent and non-partisan although members of opposition political parties, including the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), were also present in support of the demonstration. Members of civil society were also present.
Protesters gathered outside the Office of the President, urging the government to accept responsibility for the tragedy and insisting that Minister Edghill step down over his ministry’s oversight of the country’s transport sector.
One of the organisers, Chandradatt Jagdeo, later took to Facebook, describing the turnout as a significant achievement for the newly formed movement.
“WE THE PEOPLE, a Gen Z movement not even 2 weeks old, NOT sponsored by any Political party, brought hundreds, 300+ (I did a head count) people out to peacefully protest against the current government policies as it relates to the MV Barima Tragedy. We deserve better and we came here to make our voices heard!
“When young people especially realize their power, they can accomplish anything and they will be heard. Remember that movement in India, the cockroach movement that led to the resignation of a minister, wonderful!
“Next week again, same place, same time 4:30PM, Friday August 7th. Bring a friend!”
The demonstration remained peaceful throughout, with protesters observing moments of silence in memory of the 73 victims while calling for greater accountability and reforms to improve safety in Guyana’s river transport sector.
Yesterday’s protest is expected to be the first in a series of weekly demonstrations, with organisers announcing plans to return to the Office of the President on August 7.
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