As Guyana mourns the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, has made a public appeal for peace and respect for the rule of law ahead of the child’s funeral, scheduled for Monday.
Younge’s body was found in the swimming pool of the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, late last month. The circumstances surrounding her death have triggered national outcry and prompted calls for an international investigation.
An autopsy conducted last week by three internationally respected pathologists concluded that Younge died by drowning. However, civil society groups, political parties, and the child’s family have rejected claims from President Irfaan Ali that her death was not due to “forceful drowning.” With lingering distrust in the Guyana Police Force (GPF), both the family and the political opposition have renewed their push for international involvement in the probe.
Amid these tensions, Ambassador Theriot issued a statement on the US Embassy’s Facebook page on Monday, expressing condolences and calling for national calm.
“I express my heartfelt condolences following the tragic death of Adrianna Younge and share my deep concern and sorrow over the crisis and civil unrest that have happened in Guyana,” she said. “I encourage all Guyanese citizens to remain calm and voice their concerns through non-violent means and to adhere to the rule of law. Looting and destruction of property are harmful to all. I strongly urge all involved to commit to peace as the Government works to resolve the situation.
“The United States remains committed to supporting the people of Guyana, our shared democratic principles, and the country’s continued stability and prosperity,” Theriot added.
The Guyana Police Force confirmed that Adrianna Younge had been seen on government surveillance footage entering a car that has since been identified. Her death, under still-unclear circumstances, has sparked protests and sporadic unrest across the country.
Last week, the government responded by enforcing a 12:30 am to 5:00 am curfew, effectively locking down public movement and gatherings. The order, which was gazetted last Tuesday, aimed to quell tensions as parts of the capital took on the appearance of a ghost town.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, in a statement released ahead of the funeral, warned that any attempt to disrupt Monday’s events would be met with firm action.
“The Guyana Police Force, with the full support of the Joint Services, is on alert to respond to specific and general requests to calls for service from the public to assure calm and security,” the ministry said.
It also urged the public to maintain a “non-disruptive, safe and respectful atmosphere” on May 5, which is also observed as Arrival Day in Guyana. Officials emphasized that national stability is essential not only for Younge’s funeral but also for the timely start of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) exams.
Younge’s family has appealed to the public to refrain from protesting during the funeral and allow for a peaceful farewell to their daughter.
