Guyana Minister Juan Edghill Faces Resignation Calls Over MV Barima Ferry Tragedy

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill drew criticism after prematurely ruling out overloading and mechanical failure as causes of the MV Barima sinking. APNU Member of Parliament Saiku Andrews charged that Edghill’s statements were “self‑exculpation,” made before a proper technical investigation, an accurate passenger manifest, or a full cargo inventory were available. Andrews warned that dismissing technical factors before maritime experts could examine the hull undermined public trust.

Indigenous leaders have also demanded Edghill’s resignation. Kako Toshao Romario Hastings and Aruau Community Development Council chairman Chris Debideen called the tragedy a failure of governance and resource allocation in Guyana’s river transport system. Hastings urged that accountability extend beyond investigations, saying the minister should step aside to restore confidence, while Debideen wrote an open letter to President Irfaan Ali urging safe, accountable transport services.