Godfrey Smith to Lead MV Barima Inquiry

The investigation into the tragic sinking of the MV Barima has officially begun. This morning, the Government of Guyana swore in the members of a Commission of Inquiry tasked with uncovering what led to the maritime disaster. Leading that investigation is Belizean Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith, who was formally appointed chairman during today’s ceremony. Here is more from the swearing-in.

 

Godfrey Smith, SC, Chairman, Commission of Inquiry

“I Godfrey Phillip smith do hereby solemnly declare, that I will faithfully, fully, impartially and to the best of my ability discharge the trust and perform the duties devolving upon me as chairman by virtue of the commission issued by his excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali on the thirtieth of July 2026. And I do so affirm. Thank you sir, I already have your signature. Congratulations Justice Godfrey Smith, you have now been appointed chairman of Commission of Inquiry.”

 

The other four commissioners are from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Poland. They are all maritime experts.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

Watch the full newscast here: