President Dr Irfaan Ali has cautioned Amerindians to be aware of politicians with selfish motives, who turn up in speedboats to exploit them in times of tragedy.
Speaking at the launch of the Amerindian Heritage Month on Tuesday evening, the Head of State pointed out that some politicians exploit the legitimate concerns and grievances of the indigenous peoples when their true interests are elsewhere.
“I say to you, our indigenous brothers and sisters, be careful about those who suddenly appear among you when there is a crisis. Arriving in fast boats, bearing hampers and expressions of sympathy, presenting themselves as champions of your interests. Be especially careful when people seek to turn your legitimate concerns into a vehicle for their own political or personal survival. Do not allow your grievances and aspirations to become somebody else’s escape route for their own legal troubles. Do not allow your concerns to be used as a ticket to avoid jail,” Ali declared.
His remarks come on the heels of United States-sanctioned and indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed recently travelling to Region One (Barima-Waini) in his go-fast boat to meet with survivors and families of the victims of the July 18 MV Barima tragedy.
Mohamed, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed, is currently facing extradition to the US over allegations of gold smuggling and financial crimes. The father-and-son duo are currently out on $150,000 bail as they continue to fight their extradition.
“Sometimes the gravest danger is the person who comes smiling, bearing gifts, and claiming to be your friend. Gifts can be temporary. Sympathy can be convenient. Political promise can disappear when a crisis has passed. Yes, we feel the hurt. We acknowledge the hurt of a great tragedy. But…this Government [and] this president will stand with you in every season, in every moment, under every weather. We shall not waver,” the Guyanese Leader declared.
The MV Barima, a passenger and cargo ferry, sank on July 18, 2026, off the coast of Guyana near the Pomeroon River, claiming 73 lives, with another 30 persons still missing. Some 76 persons survived the horrific boat accident.
President Ali has since launched the Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience, and Trust (HEART) Initiative to offer long-term, multistakeholder assistance to the survivors and families of victims of this tragedy.
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