By Mark DaCosta- The People’s National Congress Reform / A Partnership for National Unity (PNCR/APNU) coalition has raised grave concerns regarding the circumstances surrounding the capsising of the MV Barima, demanding truth, accountability, and ministerial responsibility at the highest level. They have highlighted alarming discrepancies in passenger records, questioned the vessel’s seaworthiness and maintenance history, criticised premature statements by senior officials, and called for a fully independent investigation supported by external maritime experts.

The coalition further insists that two ministers step aside pending the inquiry, and that comprehensive reforms be implemented to prevent future catastrophes. These points were highlighted at a coalition press conference on July 24, 2026, which was followed by the release of a detailed statement.

The coalition has placed the weight of national grief alongside an unyielding demand for answers, insisting that the devastating loss of life aboard the MV Barima cannot be buried beneath sorrow alone. “Expressions of sympathy cannot substitute for truth, accountability and justice,” the coalition affirmed. In the wake of what has become one of the most harrowing maritime catastrophes in our nation’s history, the opposition grouping argues that sympathy must give way to rigorous scrutiny and ministerial responsibility.