U.S. House Democratic Leader Jeffries Mourns MV Barima Victims

United States House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has expressed condolences to the people of Guyana following the deadly sinking of the MV Barima, saying his office will continue to support members of the Guyanese-American community affected by the tragedy that has plunged the nation into mourning.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Jeffries said he was “deeply saddened” by the capsizing of the vessel and offered prayers for the families of those who lost their lives.

“Deeply saddened by the capsizing of the MV Barima off the coast of Guyana.

My prayers are with the loved ones of the deceased and people all across the country.

Our office will continue to assist members of the Guyanese American community impacted by this horrible tragedy.

May God watch over the people of Guyana.”

Jeffries, the highest-ranking Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives, represents a New York congressional district with a large Caribbean population, including thousands of Guyanese-Americans. His statement is among the latest international expressions of solidarity following one of Guyana’s deadliest maritime disasters.

The MV Barima sank during its voyage from Georgetown to Port Kaituma on the night of July 18, triggering a massive search-and-recovery operation involving Guyanese authorities, regional partners and international rescue teams. The disaster claimed dozens of lives and has devastated families across Guyana and within the country’s extensive overseas diaspora.

The sinking has also sparked widespread calls for accountability, with questions raised about the vessel’s seaworthiness, regulatory oversight and the government’s handling of the tragedy. President Irfaan Ali has since announced a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the disaster, while opposition parties and victims’ relatives have urged that any investigation be transparent and complemented by an independent international marine safety probe.

Jeffries’ remarks underscore the tragedy’s impact beyond Guyana’s borders, particularly in the United States, where a large Guyanese diaspora continues to mourn alongside families at home.