Transparency International Guyana Inc. (TIGI) has refused to endorse the Government’s newly appointed Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima disaster, arguing that the process lacks the transparency, consultation and independence required to investigate one of the country’s deadliest maritime tragedies.

In a strongly worded statement issued Sunday evening following a national civil society consultation, TIGI said it currently has “no confidence” in the Commission as constituted, not because of the professional standing of the commissioners themselves, but because the Government established the body without consulting those most affected by the disaster.

The organisation is now calling on President Irfaan Ali to suspend the Commission’s work, consult key stakeholders within seven days, and reconstitute the inquiry in a manner capable of commanding public confidence.