Georgetown, Guyana – The tragic death of 15-year-old Joel Adams during the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports’ “Learn to Swim” event has ignited a storm of criticism over the ministry’s handling of the incident. Hon. Nima Flue-Bess, a member of the opposition in Parliament, has been vocal in condemning the ministry’s lack of care and respect in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The event, aimed at teaching swimming to young participants, was poorly organized and notably lacked professional lifeguards. Despite these glaring safety oversights, Minister Charles Ramson touted the event’s continuation without addressing the critical failings that led to Joel’s death.
In a timely rebuke, Hon. Nima Flue-Bess remarked, “This child did not get the respect he deserved. I should emphasize that I’m not surprised… it is the way of this government…they just don’t care.” Her comments reflect widespread frustration with the ministry’s handling of the situation, which was compounded by misleading reports that Joel performed a backflip into the pool and broke his neck.
Flue-Bess further criticized the ministry’s response, saying, “…instead of livestreaming the funeral on the ministry social media page, or on the ‘Learn to Swim’ page they have instead, taken to Facebook to tell people that they have carried on smartly with the program and have been posting pictures ….”
The opposition member’s pointed remarks highlight the disorganization and confusion that followed Joel’s death. “So Joel died at the ‘Learn to Swim’ meet that is controlled by the government. Joel lived in a state facility? Joel lost his life while in a government program. There are all kinds of confusing stories coming out…May you rest in peace Joel and we pray that justice will prevail and that the truth will come out.”
Minister Ramson’s reported absence from Joel’s funeral and lack of public condolences have further inflamed public sentiment. Flue-Bess’s comments suggest a deliberate attempt to avoid addressing the ministry’s responsibility in the incident, describing the response as a “hush hush, shoo shoo affair.”
Calls for justice and improved safety measures at public events have intensified in the wake of Joel’s death. The community is demanding a thorough investigation and accountability from those responsible.
