The Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) and the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) at the weekend called for justice and accountability in the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge.
In a press release on Sunday, the RCC said the tragic death of Adrianna, whose body was found in the pool at the Double Day Hotel on Thursday, underscores the urgent need for a swift, transparent, and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.
“We demand that all individuals involved, including alleged perpetrators and institutions responsible for her welfare, be held fully accountable under the law. Justice for Adrianna is not negotiable—it is a moral imperative,” the RCC said.
On Saturday, the ERC in a press release said it strongly condemns the circumstances leading up to this tragedy and stands in full solidarity with the family in their call for justice.
The Ethnic Relations Commission’s Chairman, Shaikh Moeenul Hack and CEO/Secretary, Gomin Camacho visited Adrianna Younge’s family on Saturday. (Photo: Ethnic Relations Commission)
“Those involved must be held accountable and face the full extent of the law. We mourn as a nation for this beloved child of Guyana, Adrianna Younge. Whether Christian, Hindu, or Muslim, we are united in sorrow and share in the pain of the tragic loss of this innocent child,” the ERC said.
On Wednesday last, Adrianna’s family reported her missing she visited the hotel with her grandmother, Carol Xavier, and other relatives around 1:02 PM. Despite a police search shortly after her disappearance, her body was not found until early Thursday morning — floating in the same pool that had been searched the day before.
The circumstances that led to the late discovery of the girl’s body has faced public discourse about the lack of urgency following the missing person’s report and controversial activities on the ground during the search.
The RCC reiterated the principles enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), ratified by Guyana, which guarantees that under the following articles, every child has: Article 6: “The right to life…to the maximum extent possible; Article 19: The right to protection from “all forms of physical or mental violence, injury, abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Condolences were also extended by both the RCC and the ERC to Adrianna’s family, loved ones, and the many communities grappling with the untimely death of the young girl. The RCC also committed to supporting Adrianna’s family in their pursuit of justice to ensure Adrianna’s death will not be in vain.
It further committed to closely monitor the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to come forward and assist authorities.
The RCC noted that Adrianna’s case serves as a harrowing reminder of the collective duty to protect children and uphold their rights without exception.
“We call on law enforcement, judicial authorities, and social services to act urgently, ensuring no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of truth and justice.”
It further urged communities to remain vigilant advocates for children’s safety. Importantly, persons are asked to report negligence, demand accountability, and prioritise child protection at all levels.
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