(Kaieteur News) – Leaked internal maintenance logs, official requisitions, and urgent technical reports spanning nearly a year reveal a damning paper trail of mechanical warnings for the MV Barima, contradicting Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill’s claims that the vessel was operating “seaworthy” before it capsized on 18th July, 2026, claiming more than 100 lives.

The documents received by this publication (click to see full document 1 and 2), signed by Captain K. Price, Chief Engineer P. Seepersaud, and endorsed by the Shore Chief Engineer and Marine Superintendent of the Transport and Harbours Department, outline a catastrophic history of unaddressed mechanical failures, structural hazards, and failing safety systems.

The revelations stand in contrast to statements made by Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill. During a Department of Public Information (DPI) press briefing on 20th July, Minister Edghill dismissed allegations that the vessel was unfit for sea, stating, “There was no report of any kind that suggested the vessel was unseaworthy. It was in line for dry docking in keeping with the schedule.”