-need for counselling seen
By Khadidja Ba
During a four-day visit by Stabroek News to Mahdia, Campbelltown and Micobie, the parents of 11 of the girls who tragically lost their lives in the dorm fire in May 2023, as well as the parents of the boys who witnessed the horror, raised serious concerns about unfulfilled promises from the government and feeling silenced by local authorities.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retribution from local and government officials, the parents express-ed their ongoing grief and frustration over what they describe as a lack of support and accountability. All of the parents speaking with SN revealed they had been pressured into signing agreements following the fire, and many feel that their pain and demands for justice have been disregarded.
Promises left unfulfilled
A common thread in the parents’ accounts was the promise of support that has yet to materialize in meaningful ways. One parent, whose daughter died in the fire, voiced disbelief over the government’s offer of $5 million in compensation, which they argue is insufficient given the years of care and sacrifice involved in raising a child.