A nation in prayer: ERC pays tribute to victims of MV Barima

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Thursday hosted a solemn service of prayer and reflection in memory of the victims of the MV Barima tragedy. The initiative, which was held at the commission’s 66 Peter Rose and Anira Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown, headquarters, brought together commissioners, representatives of constitutional commissions, and the staff of its secretariat. The observance provided an opportunity for collective mourning, reflection, and solidarity as Guyana continues to come to terms with one of the nation’s most heart-breaking tragedies.

The programme, themed “In Our Hearts. In Our Prayers. Forever Remembered”, was officiated by the commission’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ms Gomin Camacho, who reflected on the importance of unity, compassion, and hope during times of national grief. Opening remarks were delivered by Commissioner Ashton Simon, who represents the Indigenous Constituency on the ERC. In his address, Commissioner Simon reminded those gathered that tragedy transcends ethnicity, religion, and geography, calling upon all 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. The Commission also wishes to acknowledge and thank all those involved in the rescue and recovery efforts. We pray for their protection, wisdom, and strength as they continue this difficult and selfless work,” he remarked.
Chairman of the ERC, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, offered words of consolation and led prayers on behalf of the Islamic constituency. Reciting from the Holy Qur’an, he reminded those gathered that even in times of profound loss and uncertainty, faith calls upon believers to remain patient, steadfast, and compassionate. He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon those who lost their lives, strength for grieving families, healing for the survivors, protection for the rescue teams, and unity for the nation as it journeys through this difficult period.

This was followed by Commissioner Reverend Rodwell Porter, representing the Christian constituency, who shared reflections and prayers centred on hope, healing, and God’s abiding presence in times of sorrow. Drawing upon scripture and the well-known Naval Hymn, he encouraged Guyanese to support one another with compassion and reminded those present that, even amid tragedy, God’s comfort remains available to all who mourn.
Representing the Hindu constituency, Commissioner Pandit Krishn Sharma offered words of comfort and prayer, urging Guyanese to respond to the tragedy not with blame but with compassion, love, and unwavering support for those affected. Drawing upon the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Hindu scriptures, he reminded those gathered of the importance of strengthening the mind in times of adversity, finding solace in faith, and remaining united as one people while embracing those who continue to grieve.
Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC), Indra Chandarpal, delivered heartfelt remarks calling for greater compassion, tolerance, and collective responsibility. She urged that every effort be made to ensure that lessons are learned from this tragedy and that meaningful measures are implemented to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents occurring in the future.
Also addressing the gathering was Commissioner of the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC), Colleen Clarke-Anthony, who paid special tribute to the children affected by the tragedy. She extended words of comfort to grieving families, particularly those who suffered the unimaginable loss of a child, while urging families, communities, and relevant agencies to provide comfort, care, and psychosocial support to children affected by this tragedy, ensuring that their welfare and emotional well-being remain a priority in the days and weeks ahead.
A particularly moving moment of the programme came with the recitation of an original poem by Shivraj Balkissoon, programme officer of the ERC. The poignant tribute honoured the lives of those lost while offering hope and encouragement to the families left behind.
The observance concluded with the stirring rendition of the “Hymn for Guyana’s Children”, led by Shemuel Fanfair, Head of the Commission’s Media Monitoring Unit (MMU). Commissioners, staff, and guests joined together in singing the national song, bringing the service to a close in a spirit of remembrance, unity, and national solidarity.
The Commission extends its deepest condolences to every family affected by the MV Barima tragedy and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting unity, compassion, and mutual support during this period of national mourning. The ERC also expresses its profound appreciation to the emergency responders, healthcare professionals, volunteers, members of the disciplined services, and all others whose dedication and selfless service have provided comfort and solace to affected families.