The Working People’s Alliance (WPA) extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives as a result of the tragic capsizing of the passenger vessel MV Barima. We also extend our solidarity with those who have been rescued. At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with every family anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones and with the emergency personnel and volunteers engaged in rescue and recovery efforts. This heartbreaking incident has once again highlighted the immense risks faced by citizens who depend on river transport.

National tragedies demand national unity. They also demand transparency and accountability by the State. It is therefore deeply troubling that there have been reports indicating that members of the independent media were sidelined from official briefings. In moments of national crisis, access to timely and accurate information should never be determined by political considerations or media affiliation.

WPA believes that every legitimate media house has a responsibility to inform the public. Restricting access to official information undermines public confidence, fuels speculation, and weakens the transparency that is essential during emergencies. The Government must ensure that all media organizations are afforded equal and fair access to official briefings and updates. WPA strongly condemns the government’s politicization of this tragedy.