Survivors and relatives of those affected by the MV Barima tragedy will be allowed to give evidence before the Commission of Inquiry next week, even if they have not yet submitted signed statements.

The commission has amended its rules to allow witnesses to give their accounts orally under oath or affirmation, removing the requirement to have a signed statement on record before testifying.

Four days have been set aside for the hearings, beginning November 16 with witnesses from Regions Three and Four. Testimony will continue on November 17 for Regions Five and Six, before moving to Mabaruma and surrounding villages on November 18 and Port Kaituma and surrounding villages on November 19.

Witnesses with legal representation may be guided through their testimony by their lawyers. For those without lawyers, the commissioners or the commission's counsel may do so.

Witnesses may also face further questioning or cross-examination, as permitted by the commissioners.

The commission announced the arrangements on Tuesday, November 10, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Liliendaal. Its secretariat will coordinate travel and other arrangements for survivors and family members attending the hearings.

The inquiry is examining the circumstances surrounding the capsizing on the night of July 18, 2026.