The New York based not for profit NGO, Guyana Democracy Project (GDP), in a statement on July 20, expressed profound shock and sorrow over the MV Barima mishap in the Atlantic just off the coast of Essequibo that has taken many precious lives besides the loss of the vessel itself and many vehicles and valuable cargo. The ferry capsized suddenly on the night of July 18 into the early hours of July 19.
Guyanese diaspora, like the rest of the nation and others, are deeply heartbroken by the news of the ferry tragedy. It has been the talk among every Guyanese interviewed or engaged by this writer at random in USA, Canada, London, Aruba, Trinidad, and elsewhere. The diaspora, like Guyana, are plunged into mourning. It aches their hearts to see our nation going through such a terrible loss. Since the 1980s, the diaspora has been willing to provide necessary support and assistance to their former homeland and to lobby the governments of where they have domiciled to offer help to Guyana. The U.S is one of the closest allies of Guyana with the bond strong and enduring thanks to the work of this writer and other elements in the diaspora who since the late 1970s have been lobbying America to provide various forms of assistance to our country.
The GDP statement in part stated: “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we learn about the capsizing and sinking of the MV Barima and the loss of untold number of lives and valuable cargo and vehicles. We grieve over the loss of lives and pray for their souls, and we extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones. And we offer our hand to everyone affected by this tragic ferry mishap. We are grateful that lives have been saved. We pray for all affected ones including the survivors and wish them a speedy recovery. Our deep thoughts and prayers are with those who are mourning the loss of their loved ones and with the individuals who remain missing as well as with the government and people of Guyana and with everyone affected by this unimaginable tragedy during this difficult time. We stand in solidarity with the affected and with our nation and express our deepest gratitude to the rescue teams, first responders, Haresh Singh and other volunteers working tirelessly during this difficult time in addressing the event in search, rescue, recovery. Our gratitude goes out to everyone who have tried to assist”.
It adds:
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may the survivors, injured, and affected find strength in a swift recovery. To the families of those missing, we stand with you in hope and prayer. To those who are injured, we wish you strength, healing and a full recovery. We offer our solidarity and support to all during this period of sadness. Please know that we share in grief and are here to support in any way we can as the country and the affected navigate this painful time. May God grant comfort and strength to every family affected.”