‘Do not allow MV Barima tragedy to become a source of division’ – Pres. Ali urges Guyanese in message to National Assembly

Despite protests from members of the opposition, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall on Monday afternoon delivered a message from the president to the National Assembly, as catered for by the constitution.

In the message, Nandlall formally updated the House on the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry as well as the introduction of the HEART Initiative, intended to determine and mobilise financial and other support for those affected by the July 18 MV Barima tragedy.

Moreover, the Attorney General conveyed President Dr Irfaan Ali’s heartfelt appeal for Guyanese to come together in solidarity as the nation mourns this tragedy – but this message was briefly interrupted by the protests from the opposition.

“I urge every Guyanese to continue lifting our country in prayer. Pray for the bereaved. Pray for the survivors. Pray for those still missing. Pray for those who continue the difficult work of recovery. And pray for Guyana. Finally, I appeal to every Member of this Honourable House, and indeed to every citizen, not to allow this tragedy to become a source of division among us. Let it instead become a moment that forges a stronger, more compassionate and united Guyana,” he expressed.

“In the face of this heart-wrenching tragedy, our response must be greater unity, not greater division. The pain we share today transcends our differences. At a time when so many families are carrying an unbearable burden of grief, the greatest tribute we can offer to those we have lost is to stand together in unity, in concern and in compassion,” he added.

Before the brief interruption, Nandlall also delivered a message from the Head of State to both survivors and families and friends of those who lost their lives in the incident. The President’s message also recognised the collective efforts of Guyanese from all walks of life who rallied to support those affected, while expressing gratitude for the assistance extended by the regional and international community.

“To those who survived this horrific ordeal, we know that survival itself carries its own burden. The memories of that dreadful night may remain with you for years to come. You are not alone. Your country stands beside you. To the families still waiting for news of loved ones, we understand the anguish of every passing hour. We know that uncertainty is among the greatest of human torments. I give this Parliament and the nation my solemn assurance that we shall not rest until every possible effort has been exhausted to account for every passenger who was aboard that vessel. This tragedy has also revealed the extraordinary character of the Guyanese people. I wish to express the profound gratitude of a grateful nation to every individual and organisation that answered the call to serve,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Phillips subsequently took to the floor to update the National Assembly on the search and rescue operations but his presentation was also interrupted by the opposition’s protest.

Before the interruption, PM Phillips clarified that 77 persons were initially rescued but one of them later died, bringing the number of survivors from the tragedy to 76. The death toll stands at 73 while those unaccounted for is around 30.

Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir invited Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed to deliver an address on the MV Barima tragedy but he refused.

In their protest, the Opposition MPs are calling for the resignations of Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister of Aviation and Public Utilities Deodat Indar, who previously served as Minister within the Public Works Ministry.