Former Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh will represent Public Works Minister Juan Edghill at the Commission of Inquiry into the MV Barima disaster, following public calls for the minister to step down over the deadly maritime tragedy.
Singh secured the Commission’s permission on Wednesday to appear on Edghill’s behalf when issues arise that require the minister’s representation. In explaining his involvement, the senior attorney pointed to the intense public criticism directed at Edghill and former Public Works Minister Deodat Indar after the vessel capsized.
Both ministers faced demands for their resignations in the aftermath of the disaster, which raised serious questions about vessel safety, oversight and accountability.
Singh told the commissioners that Edghill had a substantial interest in the inquiry and cited what he described as “trenchant criticisms” levelled against the two officials.
He also alluded to what he called “some rather indecorous calls relating to their well-being and their continued service” in the Government of Guyana.
The attorney, who said he has been admitted to practise law in Guyana since 1983, made clear that his involvement would be on an as-needed basis rather than requiring his presence throughout the proceedings.
“I am here intending, with your leave, to represent when necessary or if necessary the Honourable Minister of Works, Mr. Juan Edghill,” Singh said.
He subsequently asked the Commission to recognise that he might not attend every session or remain present for the questioning of every witness.
“With no intention of discourtesy or disrespect being extended to the Commission, I don’t believe, given the context and the circumstances, that I would be required to be here on every day and for every witness,” he told the commissioners.
Singh said he would attend “when necessary and when required.”
The legal arrangement comes as the Commission examines the circumstances surrounding the sinking of the MV Barima on July 18, 2026. The vessel capsized while travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma in Region One, prompting a major search-and-rescue operation and public demands for answers.
Built in 1939, the vessel’s age and reported concerns about its seaworthiness became central to questions surrounding the disaster. The tragedy also prompted scrutiny of passenger safety, regulatory oversight and the Government’s response.
Edghill’s representation at the inquiry places his interests within the proceedings as commissioners examine the evidence and circumstances surrounding the sinking. However, Singh’s appearance does not itself establish responsibility or wrongdoing on the minister’s part.
The inquiry’s findings will be important in determining what led to the disaster and whether any shortcomings in safety, oversight or emergency response contributed to the loss of life.
