In the wake of the devastating Mahdia dormitory fire in May that claimed the lives of 20 children, the Guyanese government has announced a $25,000 settlement for each victim's family. This decision, however, has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that the sum is inadequate and serves as a means for the government to evade responsibility for the tragedy.

The fire, which occurred on May 21st, was intentionally set by a female student who has since been charged with murder. The incident brought to light serious safety concerns regarding the state-run boarding school, particularly the practice of placing iron grills on windows and padlocks on doors.

The opposition party, A Partnership For National Unity (APNU), has condemned the settlement, asserting that the amount is insufficient to cover the costs of rebuilding a home, especially in the interior region where transportation expenses are high. They argue that the government, being responsible for the children's safety while in their care, is not merely extending a favor but fulfilling an obligation.

Furthermore, the APNU accuses the government of attempting to sidestep recommendations from UNICEF to address safety issues at state-run dormitories. These recommendations include changes to the very practices that contributed to the tragic loss of life in the Mahdia fire.

While the government maintains that the families agreed to the settlement to support their future needs, and that burial expenses were previously covered, the opposition's criticism highlights the underlying tension surrounding the government's handling of the tragedy's aftermath.

Looking ahead, the government is preparing to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the incident. Retired Maj. Gen. Joseph Singh will lead the panel, but the remaining members have yet to be appointed.

Image caption: Aftermath of the Mahdia dormitory fire in Guyana. (Guyana's Department of Public Information via AP Photo, File)