Dear Editor,
“Rivah nah get front door; rivah nah get backdoor.” The words of my late maternal grandfather [Cap’n Mackenzie] is an appropriate reminder of the dangers of travel on the high seas. He stressed caution and prudence. The MV Barima tragedy is emblematic of Guyana today.
The boat had a captain and chief engineer; just like our country-we have a defacto president and a nominal president. The tragedy did not spare the supporters of the PPP regime nor did it disproportionally affect APNU or WIN supporters. A failed government impoverishes the citizenry regardless of party affiliation.
Under President Ali’s government, Guyana has experienced 2 major catastrophes: the Madhia dorm fire and the sinking of the MV Barima. Both involved significant loss of lives. But they are distinguishable: In the Madhia tragedy, it was totally unforeseeable that a child would set a dorm ablaze. In the current crisis: the boat captain and chief engineer were adults. They owed the passengers a duty of care; they are culpable for their dereliction of duty!!!
Furthermore, the proximate cause of this situation is Minister Edghill’s mismanagement of public transport sector. His ministry purchased the MV Ma Lisha for US$12.7 to ply the Georgetown to North West District corridor. In the 22 April 2023, the Guyana Chronicle reported that Minister Edghill proclaimed the purchase as “a game changer in water transportation.” The vessel is yet to make a maiden voyage on the proposed route. His explanation as reported in Kaieteur News [22 July 2026]: the vessel is not in operation because the wharf must be rebuilt. Bishop Edghill is the expert in putting the cart before the horse. President Ali is responsible for placing this square peg into a round hole.
Accountability behooves President Ali fires Minister Edghill!! Guyana is watching; the PPP will be held accountable in the next election.