–as recovery efforts continue; every available resource is being deployed to save lives, support victims
–says this is a time for solidarity, not political division

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured the nation that there will be a full, thorough and independent investigation into the MV Barima tragedy while urging Guyanese to remain united as rescue and recovery efforts continue.
Addressing the nation, the Guyanese leader said the government’s immediate focus is on rescuing survivors, assisting grieving families, and locating every person who remains unaccounted for.
“At this time, our priority remains to protect every life that still can 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,” Dr. Ali said.
He added, “Every minute matters, every life matters, and every possible resource is being mobilised in pursuit of this mission.”
The Head of State said he had shared in the pain and anxiety of affected families and assured them that every practical measure would be taken to provide the assistance and support they require.
He praised the swift response mounted following news of the tragedy, describing it as a national effort that demonstrated the country’s unity in a time of crisis.
He said, “I pay the highest tribute to the extraordinary men and women who responded immediately to this disaster.”
The Head of State said, “From the moment news of the tragedy reached us, a massive rescue effort was launched with urgency and determination.”
Dr. Ali commended the bravery and selflessness of those involved in the operation.
The President thanked Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Cabinet ministers, members of the Joint Services, emergency responders, regional officials, volunteers, fishermen, community members, religious leaders, parliamentarians, representatives of the private sector, civil society and international partners for their roles in the rescue and recovery efforts.
He commended their collective response, describing it as a truly national effort during a time of profound national anguish.
The President said, “Their actions have reflected the very best of Guyana. This has been a truly national effort in a time of profound national anguish.
“It is a powerful reminder that when adversity strikes, the people of Guyana stand shoulder to shoulder, united by our shared humanity.”

EVERY AVAILABLE RESOURCE
Dr. Ali reiterated that the government would continue deploying every available resource until all possible rescue and recovery efforts have been exhausted.
“I wish to assure every citizen that we are sparing no effort in this ongoing rescue and recovery mission. Every available asset is being deployed, 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.
The President also pledged a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
He said, “I also assure the nation that there will be a full, thorough, and independent investigation into this tragedy.
“The families affected, and indeed the people of Guyana, deserve answers, deserve to know precisely what transpired, and whether any failures contributed to this heartbreaking event.”
President Ali said the investigation would pursue “the truth with transparency, impartiality, and accountability.”
At the same time, he appealed for restraint, urging citizens not to speculate or politicise the tragedy while rescue operations remain underway.
“But now is not the time for speculation. It is not the time to cast aspersions or to politicise a tragedy that has brought such unspeakable pain to so many,” he said.
“There will be a time for facts, for accountability, and for measured judgment.”
Instead, the President urged Guyanese to focus on supporting those affected.
“Today, however, our collective responsibility is to save lives, to comfort the grieving, to support the traumatised, and to stand with every family whose world has been turned upside down,” he said.
Calling on the country’s history of resilience, he urged citizens to draw strength from faith, hope and national unity as Guyana navigates what he described as one of its most difficult periods.
“I once again ask every Guyanese to keep the victims, the survivors, their families, and the brave rescuers in your thoughts and prayers. Reach out where you can. Offer comfort where it is needed. Let compassion and support, not division, guide our words and actions,” he said.
The President acknowledged that the coming days would be challenging for the country and indicated that details of the form of national mourning would be announced shortly.
“In the coming hours and days, it is going to be a difficult period for us as a people and as a country. There are going to be long days ahead of us, difficult days from this tragedy, but we must come together in love, unity, faith, patience, and reverence to the families and communities most affected,” Dr. Ali said.
He concluded by praying for the victims, survivors and their families.
“May God watch over Guyana and bring us through this horrific experience. God bless all of you, especially the families of all those who were aboard the MV Barima.”