The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is seeking an urgent parliamentary discussion on the establishment of an independent Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the sinking of the MV Barima, which claimed the lives of more than 70 persons in what has been described as Guyana’s worst maritime disaster.
In a letter dated July 24, 2026, APNU Member of Parliament Dr. Terrence Campbell wrote to Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, requesting leave under Standing Order 12 to move the adjournment of the Assembly to facilitate a discussion on the proposed terms of reference for the inquiry.
Dr. Campbell argued that the matter is one of urgent public importance given the significant loss of life, property damage, and the growing public concern surrounding the circumstances of the tragedy.
“The sinking of the MV Barima on 18 July 2026 was the worst maritime disaster in Guyana’s recent history with a death toll that has exceeded seventy (70) persons. Consequently, there is an immediate need to establish a fully independent Commission of Inquiry with clear terms of reference to investigate the circumstances, causes and consequences of that incident,” the letter stated.
He said there are pressing questions regarding the vessel’s seaworthiness, compliance with maritime regulations, oversight by relevant authorities, the adequacy of the search-and-rescue response, the availability of vessels for emergency operations, and measures needed to prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
According to the proposed motion, the National Assembly would adjourn to consider and debate the terms of reference for an independent Commission of Inquiry before adopting them.
Among the proposed terms of reference are provisions for the Commission to establish the facts surrounding the sinking, including the timeline of events, passenger and manifest records, cargo details, and weather and navigation conditions at the time of the incident.
The inquiry would also examine the causes and contributing factors, including vessel maintenance and seaworthiness, crew qualifications and training, and compliance with national maritime laws, licences and safety standards.
Additionally, the Commission would assess the adequacy and timeliness of the search-and-rescue operation and review the actions taken by relevant agencies.
The proposed terms would empower the Commission to scrutinise the regulatory framework governing maritime operations, including oversight, inspection regimes and enforcement practices by maritime and port authorities, with a view to identifying any systemic failures.
Dr. Campbell has also proposed that the inquiry investigate allegations of negligence, misconduct, corruption or breaches of statutory duties by any individual or entity and recommend any appropriate legal or disciplinary action where warranted.
The Commission would further be tasked with recommending measures to strengthen passenger and crew safety, improve emergency preparedness and regulatory oversight, and prevent future maritime disasters. It would also have the authority to require the production of documents, summon witnesses and publish a full public report containing its findings and recommendations within a specified timeframe.
The Opposition MP has additionally proposed that interim recommendations be made where necessary to protect public safety while the inquiry is ongoing.
