Latest update September 13th, 2026 10:36 AM
Barima CoI, financial relief still in planning stages
(Kaieteur News) – Efforts to establish the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) and roll out financial assistance for the survivors and bereaved families affected by the tragedy remain in their early planning phases. Both the CoI and the financial relief mechanisms are currently laying down their foundational structure before official proceedings and distributions can commence.
Justice Godfrey Smith
Speaking directly on the progress of the inquiry, CoI Chair Justice Godfrey Smith told Kaieteur News that the panel is still laying the groundwork, “We are still in preparatory stages, meetings…for now we are still organising ourselves.”
Belizean Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay
Simultaneously, addressing the financial support intended to help relieve affected families, Belizean Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay explained that the assessment framework is currently being finalised.
Secretary to the CoI Javed Shadick
“We are currently working out the procedures and modalities to assess and process claims. We expect to make the details public shortly,” Courtenay told Kaieteur News. Secretary of the CoI Attorney Javed Shadick also confirmed with Kaieteur News that notices regarding sittings of the panel will be advertised in newspapers. He said, “usually it would be advertisements sent out to all the newspapers.”
President Ali swore in the panel members on 30th July,2026, promising full administrative and financial support for the Commission’s work. On 27thJuly,2026 President Ali also announced that Belizean lawyer and former Foreign Affairs Minister Eamon Courtenay has been asked to assist in working out the modalities relating to financial assistance for the survivors and the victims’ families. (Khadidja Ba)
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Until such time the sunken MV Barima is salvaged, brought to dry land for
examination by the Barima CoI team of Inquirers, they must, should wait
before starting their sessions or calling witnesses, survivors etc. to testify,
which must also include the 3 scapegoats charged with MURDER