MV Barima tragedy: A great loss to the nation

Dear Editor,
Members of the Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee (MJVC) of East Corentyne, Berbice, joined with the President, Dr Irfaan Ali, and the Government and people of Guyana to extend our profound sadness, our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to each family member, relative and friend of the victims who, on their way to Port Kaituma on Saturday, July 18, 2026, perished during the sinking of the MV Barima. No words can adequately ease the pain and heavy burden of losing a loved one so suddenly and tragically during this unimaginably difficult time. Please know that your grief is shared by our entire community in East Corentyne and the country as you face this tremendous loss. But you are not bearing the burden alone, for everywhere in Guyana, the Diaspora, the Caribbean and in the wider world, candles are burning, and people are praying for every soul and family. In this time of your pain and suffering, we stand with you in unity to lift your hearts and strengthen your hopes as one Guyanese family in one Guyana.
As we mourn, weep and shed tears with you for the lost souls, we know that each life lost was precious and each family affected is in our thoughts and prayers. During this incredibly difficult time, we are fully aware that most, if not all, of you are experiencing not only sorrow but also uncertainty and difficult questions. Your loss is immeasurable, and while we empathise with you and your family, we know that you will be comforted by the Lord who made heaven and earth and with whom all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).
In this sorrowful and grief-stricken time, we must pray for the dead, especially the children who have been denied the opportunity to grow up to be young men and women and live as adults until their final moment on earth. We must also pray for the bereaved families’ orphans and widows and hope that they will take solace in the consensus of Christian theology that “God will never give them more than they can bear or handle” with the encouragement that they will seek His support during this difficult time.
Again, we are deeply saddened by the loss of your loved ones, and may you find strength in the love and cherished memories of the beautiful life you shared, and may their souls rest in eternal peace and may their families find strength, comfort and courage in the days ahead.

Sincerest sympathies,
Dr Asquith Rose