(DPI)-President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Monday assured the nation that every available resource is being mobilised as the government presses ahead with the rescue and recovery mission following the tragic sinking of the MV Barima, while pledging a full and independent investigation into the incident.
In a national address, the head of state commended the collective response of government agencies, emergency personnel, volunteers and citizens, describing it as a demonstration of Guyana’s unity in the face of tragedy.
He praised Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, 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 for their tireless efforts.
“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 adversity strikes, the people of Guyana stand shoulder to shoulder, united by our shared humanity,” President Ali said.
The president assured affected families and the wider public that the government remains fully committed to the ongoing operation.
“I wish to assure every citizen that we are sparing no effort in this ongoing rescue and recovery 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 declared.
President Ali also committed to ensuring that the circumstances surrounding the tragedy are thoroughly examined once the immediate rescue and recovery efforts are completed.
“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. They deserve to know what happened, precisely what transpired and whether any failures contributed,” he stated.
President Ali called on citizens to focus on supporting those affected.
“Today, our collective responsibility is to save lives, to comfort the grieving, to support the traumatised and to stand with every family whose world has been turned upside down,” he emphasised.
Acknowledging the difficult period ahead, the president said the nation would observe an official period of mourning, the details of which will be announced in the coming hours.
“It is going to be a difficult period for us as a people and as a country. There are going to be long days ahead of us, but we must come together in love, unity, faith, patience and reverence for the families and communities most affected,” President Ali said.