Regional chambers of commerce have registered their disapproval of several acts of unrest carried out across the country in the name of justice for 11-year-old Adriana Younge. Her body was found floating in a hotel pool on the East Bank of Essequibo, one day after she went missing from the Double Day Hotel facility.
The Region Three Essequibo Islands–West Demerara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (R3CCI), the Linden Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Development, and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) have expressed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of the deceased girl, but have condemned the disruptive and violent protest actions that gripped several locations within various regions across the country.
The Linden Chamber extended condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of Adriana Younge, as well as those of Ronaldo Peters and Keon Fogenay, who were killed weeks ago by ranks of the police force. Peters was killed while reportedly evading police capture, while Fogenay was shot dead in the demonstrations for Peters’ killing.
“We mourn with the entire community as we grapple with the deep pain and loss that these tragic events have caused. The chamber is also deeply concerned about the disturbing reports of attacks on members of the Guyana Police Force during recent protest actions. Such acts of aggression are not only unacceptable but also undermine the safety and stability of our communities.
“We strongly condemn all forms of violence against law enforcement officers, who are sworn to protect and serve. Furthermore, the Linden Chamber condemns the actions of individuals who, under the cover of protest, have blocked roads, damaged public infrastructure, and vandalised private property.”
The chamber stated that these acts do not reflect the values or spirit of their community and pose a threat to public safety, business continuity, and social cohesion. Citizens were urged to exercise their democratic rights through peaceful protest.
The R3CCI reiterated their condolences to the family and friends of Adriana Younge, but appealed for peace in the aftermath of Monday’s violent protests.
“In light of recent events, R3CCI echoes the President’s solemn call for peace and reflection. We implore all citizens to act responsibly and lawfully, resisting any urge toward violence or destruction. Our strength as a people lies not in division but in unity, respect, and the shared values that bind us together. Let us choose actions that heal and build, rather than those that harm and divide,” the chamber implored.
The body urged calm and vigilance during this sensitive time and called upon all stakeholders—citizens, businesses, and institutions—to uphold the rule of law and trust in the independence of our judicial processes. “We must support measures that promote justice transparently and fairly, free from intimidation or interference. Only by working together in good faith can we build a society where peace and prosperity thrive for all.”
The GCCI also called on citizens to allow peace and stability to prevail. They said that criminal elements have hijacked and preyed upon frustrations over recent incidents, and that the acts of violence, looting, and destruction witnessed on Monday and in the early hours of Tuesday morning only serve to create unrest and deepen divisions among the people.
“The chamber remains concerned about the continued perpetuation of violence in our society, and public safety remains paramount. The GCCI is calling on authorities to enforce the implemented measures to temper unrest and be proactive in quelling any efforts aimed at furthering instability.”
