President Dr. Irfaan Ali says Guyana has been plunged into “a tragedy of immense proportions” following the capsizing of the MV Barima, even as he pledged that every available resource will remain deployed in the ongoing rescue and recovery mission.
In an address to the nation, the President said the disaster has left families waiting in anguish, communities mourning, and the country united in grief.
“The capsizing of the MV Barima has pierced the heart of our nation, leaving us united in grief, anxiety, and sorrow,” President Ali said. “Families wait in expectation and anguish for news of loved ones.”
The Head of State said he visited survivors, relatives of persons still missing, and those hospitalised at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital. He described the encounters as deeply emotional, noting that he listened to their stories and assured them that support would be provided.
“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,” he said.
President Ali paid tribute to the rescuers and responders involved in the operation, including the Prime Minister, Cabinet members, the Joint Services, emergency teams, regional officials, volunteers, fishermen, community members, religious leaders, the private sector, civil society and international partners.
He said their response reflected the best of Guyana at a time of national anguish.
“This has been a truly national effort in a time of profound national anguish,” Ali stated. “It is a powerful reminder that when adversity strikes, the people of Guyana stand shoulder to shoulder, united by our shared humanity.”
The President assured citizens that the Government is sparing no effort in the continuing mission.
“Every available asset is being deployed. Every agency is working around the clock. We will continue this effort with determination and resolve until every possible avenue has been exhausted,” he said.
At the same time, President Ali announced that there will be a full, thorough and independent investigation into the tragedy.
He said the affected families and the wider country deserve answers on what took place and whether any failures contributed to the incident.
“We will pursue the truth with transparency, impartiality, and accountability,” the President said.
However, Ali urged Guyanese to avoid speculation and politicisation while rescue and recovery efforts continue.
He said the immediate focus must remain on saving lives, comforting grieving families, supporting survivors and standing with those whose lives have been shattered.
“Let compassion and support, not division, guide our words and actions,” he urged.
President Ali said the coming hours and days will be difficult for the country, but called on Guyanese to respond with unity, faith, patience and love.
He also announced that he will soon declare the form of national mourning Guyana will observe.
“In the coming hours, I will announce the form of mourning our nation will take,” he said.
