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‘Brace yourself for the coming days,’ President tells nation after MV Barima tragedy
…promises full support for survivors, grieving families
(Kaieteur News) – President Irfaan Ali on Monday said Guyanese should prepare for the difficult days ahead, as the country grapples with the devastating capsizing of the MV Barima and as rescuers continue the desperate search for those still missing.
In a televised address to the nation after visiting survivors and grieving families in Port Kaituma and Mabaruma, the president said the tragedy has left the country in mourning and pledged that the government will stand with every affected family.
President Irfaan Ali
Earlier in the day, the president met with survivors, relatives of the missing and injured passengers receiving treatment at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital.
“It was a deeply emotional experience. I listened to their stories, shared in their pain and anxiety, and assured them that every practical measure would be taken to provide the support and assistance they need at this time.”
He said the government’s immediate focus remains on the search and rescue operation, stressing that every available resource has been deployed to find those who are still unaccounted for.
“Our priority is to protect every life that can still be saved, to support those who have endured unimaginable trauma and loss, to comfort grieving families and to account for every person who remains unaccounted for,” Ali said.
“Every minute matters. Every life matters. Every possible resource is being mobilised in pursuit of this mission.”
The president assured the nation that the search will continue for as long as there is hope.
“Every available asset is being deployed and every agency is working around the clock. We will continue this effort with determination and resolve until every possible avenue has been exhausted,” he said.
Ali also committed to a full, thorough and independent investigation into the disaster. He said Guyanese deserve to know exactly what happened.
“The families affected and the people of Guyana deserve answers. They deserve to know precisely what transpired and whether any failures contributed to this heartbreaking event. We will pursue the truth with transparency, impartiality and accountability,” he said.
He praised the efforts of rescue teams, members of the joint services, fishermen, volunteers, regional officials, religious leaders, the private sector and others who responded to the tragedy.
President Ali called for national unity, and urged citizens to support those affected instead of allowing divisions to overshadow the country’s response.
Acknowledging that the full impact of the tragedy is still unfolding, the president warned that the nation must be prepared for difficult news in the days ahead.
“Brace yourself for the coming days. It is going to be difficult for all of us.”
Ali added that he will soon announce the form of national mourning that Guyana will observe in honour of the victims.
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Blunt of the day
Sports
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Sir. Ronald Sanders
The GHK Lall Column
Weekend Cartoon
Like the Mahdia Fire… $5 million Guyana dollar for each death.
That’s shameful. Life is Cheap for the Government where its Citizens
are concerned.