Adrianna Younge’s drowning: Foreign diplomats urge “calm, respect for rule of law”

…funeral postponed

As the nation reels from the tragic death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, diplomatic voices from the international community are calling for calm, restraint and a united respect for the rule of law in Guyana.
The outpouring of grief has been compounded by instances of public terror and rising tensions, prompting urgent appeals for peace and solidarity during this emotionally charged period.
The funeral for young Adrianna, originally scheduled for Monday has been postponed by the family. In a statement, Adrianna’s mother, Ameica Simon described the unbearable pain of losing her daughter, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support shown by people from all walks of life.
“My heart is shattered beyond words,” the mother wrote. “We want to honour her with the peace, love and the dignity she deserves.”
The appeal comes amid heightened national attention and public speculation surrounding Adrianna’s tragic death at a hotel pool on April 24, including a public social media post made by Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes, in which he alleged that certain individuals and organisations are planning to disrupt the funeral of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge and incite violence.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has issued a statement expressing grave concern over the statement, noting that multiple attempts were made to contact Hughes via phone to obtain details that could assist in preventing any potential threats and ensuring the safety of mourners and the wider public. However, the Force stated that these efforts were unsuccessful as Hughes did not cooperate with the police. Instead, when an assistant Police commissioner contracted him, he said among other things, “…there is no whistle blower legislation in place to protect sources of information. I would not want to expose anyone to increased danger.”

Foreign envoys
In response to these concerns, foreign envoys, including ambassadors from the United States (US), European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) joined voices in mourning Adrianna’s death while urging Guyanese citizens to pursue justice through peaceful and lawful means.
US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot expressed “deep concern and sorrow” over the ongoing unrest, stating “Looting and destruction of property are harmful to all. I strongly urge all involved to commit to peace as the Government works to resolve the situation.”
Her sentiment was echoed by EU Ambassador Rene van Nes, who emphasised the importance of non-violence and democratic principles, reiterating the EU’s commitment to Guyana’s stability and the wellbeing of its people.
Additionally, British High Commissioner Jane Miller added her voice in support, noting that “Whilst I understand the strength of feeling over this issue, I am confident that the right way forward is always through legal and non-violent means.”
Further, Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Sébastien Sigouin urged all Guyanese to keep the peace and respect the rule of law highlighting “Canada remains committed to supporting the people of Guyana, our shared democratic principles, and the country’s continued stability and prosperity.”

Unity and compassion
At the national level, President Dr Irfaan Ali renewed his message of unity and compassion, offering prayers and sympathy to Adrianna’s grieving family.
“We pray that her soul finds eternal peace and that her memory be an inspiration of goodness, hope and positivity,” the Head of State related in a statement.
The body of Adrianna Younge was discovered in the pool of the now-gutted Double Day Hotel at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) on April 24, almost 24 hours after she was reported missing from the facility.
The child along with her grandmother and other relatives had gone to the poolside on Wednesday, April 23. She was reported missing at around 14:00hrs and despite initial searches in the pool, her body was not found.
Nevertheless, a post-mortem examination conducted on the child’s body four days after its discovery—by three international pathologists, including one appointed by the family—determined that she died as a result of drowning.
The family was planning to conduct a second autopsy, to be performed this time by Trinidadian pathologist Dr Hubert Daisley. Critics argue that seeking another autopsy may be an attempt to obtain a conclusion that aligns with certain beliefs, rather than accepting the consistent findings of the previous examinations. Additionally, repeated post-mortem examinations can deteriorate the quality of the body, potentially compromising further forensic analyses. At least one local attorney has been vocal on the issue, raising concerns about the chain of custody regarding Adrianna’s remains.