Guyana’s Home Affairs Minister announced that individuals supporting Venezuela’s elections in the disputed Essequibo region may face treason charges. The government has called on the ICJ to block these elections, citing concerns for sovereignty. Ongoing tensions have led to the deportation of Venezuelans who entered Guyana illegally. This territorial dispute continues to evolve under the scrutiny of international law.
Guyana’s government, represented by Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, has expressed awareness of the presence of Venezuelan “sleepers” in the nation. He stated that any individual supporting Venezuela’s elections for officials in the contentious Essequibo region could face treason charges. Benn emphasized a zero-tolerance policy, declaring, “We will charge that person for treason and lock them up; each and every one of them.”
Additionally, Guyana has sought intervention from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent Venezuela from conducting electoral activities within the Essequibo region. The Foreign Ministry released a statement highlighting the potential violations of sovereignty posed by the Venezuelan elections scheduled for May 25, which may involve actions affecting Guyanese territory.
Venezuela’s government, under President Nicolás Maduro, has announced plans for elections in the Essequibo region, which they controversially claim as part of their territory. This area, rich in oil resources, comprises about two-thirds of Guyana and hosts over 125,000 Gentilizans. In 2023, Venezuela claimed significant voter support for annexing the Essequibo through a referendum.
The ongoing dispute between Guyana and Venezuela over territorial boundaries has led both nations to the ICJ, where Guyana filed a case in March 2018 concerning the validity of an Arbitral Award from 1899. The Court, having established jurisdiction, is expected to make a substantive ruling on this case.
In a related development, Guyana’s authorities recently deported 75 Venezuelans, including children, who had illegally entered the country via a wooden boat. The Guyana Police Force ensured that these individuals were treated humanely and deported with necessary provisions and support from the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard.
In summary, the Guyanese government is firmly addressing the Venezuelan electoral activities in the disputed Essequibo region, warning of treason charges for any support of these actions. Simultaneously, it seeks the intervention of the ICJ to safeguard its sovereignty. The long-standing territorial dispute remains a significant issue, highlighting the complexities of international relations in the region. Moreover, Guyana’s recent deportations of Venezuelan nationals underscore its commitment to controlling its borders amidst increasing tensions.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
