President Irfaan Ali appoints Commission of Inquiry into MV Barima disaster

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana appointed a five‑member Commission of Inquiry to investigate the sinking of the MV Barima, which occurred on the night of 18 July. Opposition parties objected, arguing that the commission could not be independent because the president alone selected its members, despite the law giving the president that authority.

Commentator Christopher Ram wrote an open letter to the president, contending that the commission’s terms of reference do not limit it to the events of 18 July. He stated, “Terms of Reference are not a criminal indictment, a court charge sheet, or a narrow checklist… commissioners have the authority to follow evidence wherever it leads,” and argued that the inquiry can examine the vessel’s age, maintenance history, regulatory oversight and related government decisions.

The debate centers on the commission’s credibility and scope, with the president bearing political responsibility for its composition and the opposition demanding a more consultative appointment process.