THE First Lady of Guyana, Arya Ali, has expressed solidarity with families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, offering condolences to those who lost loved ones and prayers for survivors and families still awaiting news of missing relatives.
In a message issued as the nation grapples with the loss of life following the capsizing of the passenger and cargo vessel, Mrs Ali said the tragedy had left Guyanese “standing on the shore of grief” and waiting for loved ones who may never return.
“Too many, far too many, have already been lost,” she said, describing the tragedy as a source of profound national sorrow.
Mrs Ali extended particular sympathy to mothers who had lost children and to those still waiting for news of their offspring.
“To the mothers who have lost their children, and to those still longing to see the faces of their offspring, I see you. I feel your pain. I share your anxiety,” she said.
She also offered prayers and wishes for healing to the children who survived the ordeal.
While giving thanks for those rescued, the First Lady said the nation must also remember those who did not survive.
“We give thanks for every person rescued. But we also bow our heads for those who did not make it,” she said.
Mrs Ali extended her love and concern to families still waiting for news as search and recovery efforts continue.
She called on Guyanese to support one another during the period of national grief and to provide comfort to families whose lives have been devastated by the tragedy.
“Let us hold one another in comfort and support. Let us be the anchor for those whose lives have been turned asunder,” she said.
Mrs Ali also urged continued prayer for the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts and for families facing the uncertainty of awaiting news about their loved ones.
She concluded by praying for the protection of rescuers, blessings for those who lost their lives and comfort for the families and individuals affected by the disaster.
May God shelter the rescuers, bless the lost, and cradle the broken hearts of every mother, every child, every man, every woman, and every family still hoping, still expectant,” she said.
