President Irfaan Ali spent much of Monday meeting with survivors, families of the deceased, and the relatives of those still missing in that MV Barima tragedy, as he visited to Port Kaituma and Mabaruma in the Northwest District. Last evening, the President kept watch with some family members in Essequibo as bodies were being brought in from the site of the tragedy. With 27 persons confirmed dead, more than 80 others are still missing.

In a televised statement on Monday, President Irfaan Ali said it was a “deeply emotional experience,” even as he expressed hope that more lives could be saved.

 “It was a deeply emotional experience. I listened to their stories, shared in their pain and anxiety, and assured them that every practical measure will be taken to provide the support and assistance they need at this time. Our priority remains to protect every life that still can be saved. To support those who have endured unimaginable trauma and loss. To comfort grieving families and to account for every person who remains unaccounted for,” the President said.

Noting that every life matters, the President assured the nation that every possible resource is being mobilized in pursuit of the rescue and recovery mission. He said State will continue with determination and resolve until every possible avenue has been exhausted.

He also also paid tribute to the “extraordinary men and women” who responded immediately to the disaster.

“I commend the bravery, selflessness, and courage of every individual involved in these operations led by our Prime Minister together with members of the Cabinet, the Joint Services, Emergency Responders, regional officials, volunteers, fishermen, community members, religious leaders, members of parliament, the private sector, civil society, and international partners. Their actions reflected the very best of Guyana. This has been a truly national effort in a time of profound national anguish. It is a powerful reminder that when adversities strike, the people of Guyana stand shoulder to shoulder, united by our shared humanity,” he said.

The President also assured the nation that a thorough and independent investigation will be launched into the tragedy, but said now is not the time for speculation or the politicization of a national tragedy.

“I also assure the nation that there will be a full, thorough and independent investigation into this tragedy. The families affected and indeed the people of Guyana deserve answers, 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,” President Ali said.

He said there will be a time for accountability and measured judgment, but the collective responsibility now is to save lives, to comfort the grieving and to support the traumatized.

Related posts:

27 confirmed dead with 83 still missing in MV Barima ferry tragedy APNU, WPA and AFC call for Edghill to be removed and for independent Commission of Inquiry into MV Barima tragedy Search operation widened as hope begins to fade for more survivors from MV Barima ferry tragedy Survivors recall harrowing survival tales in MV Barima ferry tragedy