(Kaieteur News) – Almost a week since the MV Barima disaster claimed the lives of over 70 persons, including children, the National Toshaos Council (NTC) on Friday issued a statement commending the government, emergency responders, medical personnel, members of the disciplined services, and volunteers who worked in the rescue, recovery, and support efforts.

The statement was issued at the conclusion of the NTC’s 2026 Annual National Toshaos Council Conference, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre — a gathering that was itself disrupted by the tragedy. The opening ceremony, originally scheduled for Monday, was postponed after the MV Barima capsized in the Pomeroon over the weekend while en route to Port Kaituma, Region One, with 133 persons on board.

In its statement, the NTC expressed profound sorrow and extended condolences to the families, loved ones, and communities of those who died, describing the incident as the single largest loss of life in Guyana’s history. The Council acknowledged President Irfaan Ali’s declaration of three days of national mourning, noting that Toshaos observed the period with solemnity and compassion throughout the conference, including dedicated prayer sessions offering comfort for bereaved families, strength for survivors, and healing for the nation.