Barima Families Still Waiting for Answers as Walton-Desir Challenges COI

By Mark DaCosta- Amanza Walton-Desir, leader of the Forward Guyana Movement, has expressed significant concern regarding the ongoing Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy. More than a month after the five-member Commission of Inquiry was sworn in on July 30, and weeks after President Irfaan Ali announced its establishment, families of those killed in the MV Barima disaster are still awaiting substantive information on the inquiry’s proceedings.

In a statement dated September 3, Walton-Desir underscored a lack of public hearings, procedural guidelines, and meaningful engagement with those affected by this tragic incident, highlighting the government’s insufficient response during a time of mourning.

Despite a recent update from the Commission that provided some details, it fell short of what the grieving families require. Walton-Desir welcomed the newfound transparency but cautioned that the information must be rigorously scrutinised. “It must now be examined on its substance,” she stated, drawing attention to the need for thorough investigation to ensure that the complexities of the tragedy are adequately addressed.