Opposition demands stakeholders involvement in establishment of COI for Mahdia Tragedy

The Opposition, A Partnership of National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC), said they welcome the government conceding to public demands for the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the Mahdia Tragedy but demand this be done with the involvement of stakeholders.

Last Sunday evening the female dormitory of Mahdia Secondary School was razed by fire that has resulted in the death of 18 girls and the 5-year-old son of the dorm mother, and the several being injured, some of whom are still hospitalised.

The Opposition is demanding a commission that is “independent and comprise persons who have the respect of all stakeholders so that the findings are credible and acceptable to all.” We firmly advocate for the establishment of a commission that has reputable national and international members, the coalition made known.

Going further, the coalition said they firmly assert the establishment of such an Inquiry, with agreed Terms of Reference put together by the Government, Opposition, and other relevant stakeholders, essential in the aftermath of the tragic fire. This collaborative effort, they argue will ensure a fair and comprehensive investigation.

Addressing terms, the coalition said the COI should be tasked not only with investigating the specific incident at the Mahdia dormitory but also with examining all school dormitories across Guyana. The aim is to assess whether proper safety standards are in place to guarantee the safety and well-being of our children, the opposition has contended. “It is imperative that the Commission evaluates the structural integrity, fire safety measures, emergency exits, and overall compliance with relevant regulations in these facilities and to recommend changes where necessary, inter alia.”

The APNU+AFC said they have prepared some draft terms of reference that they are prepared to discuss with all stakeholders. The aim, they say, “is to foster a transparent, inclusive, and thorough inquiry that upholds the principles of transparency, accountability, justice, prevention, and adequate compensation.” The opposition reminded it is crucial that all stakeholders work together in constructing the terms of reference to ensure a truly impartial and comprehensive investigation by the COI.