THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Thursday hosted a solemn service of prayer and reflection to honour the victims of the MV Barima tragedy, as Guyana continues to mourn the loss of lives and await the outcome of ongoing search and recovery efforts.
The service, held at the Commission’s office at Peter Rose and Anira Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown, brought together ERC Commissioners, representatives of constitutional commissions and members of the Commission’s secretariat for an observance themed: “In Our Hearts. In Our Prayers. Forever Remembered.”
The programme provided an opportunity for collective mourning, reflection and solidarity, with speakers emphasising the importance of national unity, compassion and support for affected families.
Opening remarks were delivered by ERC Commissioner Ashton Simon, who represents the Indigenous constituency. He said the tragedy transcended ethnicity, religion and geography and called on Guyanese to stand together in prayer and compassion.
“We gather here as Guyanese, to offer our prayers. We pray for the souls of those who have departed, for comfort and strength for their families, and for the safe recovery of those who remain missing, so that their loved ones may find peace and closure,” Simon said.
He also acknowledged those involved in the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, praying for their protection, wisdom and strength as they continue their work.
The service featured prayers and reflections from representatives of the Islamic, Christian and Hindu constituencies of the ERC.
Chairman of the ERC, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, offered words of consolation and led prayers on behalf of the Islamic constituency, praying for mercy for those who lost their lives, strength for grieving families, healing for survivors and protection for the rescue teams.
Commissioner Reverend Rodwell Porter, representing the Christian constituency, shared reflections centred on hope, healing and faith during times of sorrow. Drawing on scripture and the Naval Hymn, he encouraged Guyanese to support one another with compassion.
Representing the Hindu constituency, Commissioner Pandit Krishn Sharma urged Guyanese to respond to the tragedy with compassion, love and support for those affected. Drawing on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and other Hindu scriptures, he stressed the importance of mental strength, faith and national unity in times of adversity.
Chief Executive Officer of the ERC, Gomin Camacho, officiated the programme and reflected on the importance of unity, compassion and hope during a period of national grief.
Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indra Chandarpal, called for greater compassion, tolerance and collective responsibility in the wake of the tragedy.
She also urged that lessons be learned and meaningful measures implemented to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents occurring in the future.
Commissioner of the Rights of the Child Commission, Colleen Clarke-Anthony, paid special tribute to children affected by the tragedy and called for families, communities and relevant agencies to provide them with care and psychosocial support.
She emphasised the need for the welfare and emotional well-being of affected children to remain a priority in the coming days and weeks.
A moving moment during the service came with the recitation of an original poem by ERC Programme Officer Shivraj Balkissoon, which honoured those who lost their lives while offering hope to the families left behind.
The observance concluded with a rendition of the “Hymn for Guyana’s Children,” led by Shemuel Fanfair, Head of the Commission’s Media Monitoring Unit.
The ERC extended condolences to all families affected by the MV Barima tragedy and expressed appreciation to emergency responders, healthcare professionals, volunteers, members of the disciplined services and others involved in providing assistance and support during the ongoing response.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity, compassion and mutual support as the nation continues to mourn and navigate the aftermath of the tragedy.
