Minister Robeson Benn has warned of treason charges for supporting Venezuela’s planned elections for Guyana’s Essequibo. Caraibes tensions have grown, with Venezuela asserting electoral intentions despite a 2023 International Court ruling. Benn highlights enhanced vetting of Venezuelan migrants and condemnations of incursions into Guyanese waters, reiterating support from international allies in preserving territorial integrity.
Tensions have intensified between Guyana and Venezuela, prompting Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn to caution against support for Venezuela’s intended elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region. Benn warned that any individual, including Guyanese citizens, who endorses these elections would face treason charges. Despite the International Court’s ruling in 2023 that Venezuela must refrain from actions affecting Essequibo, Venezuelan President Maduro has announced plans for regional elections coinciding with Guyana’s 59th Independence anniversary.
During the Guyana Police Force’s Inspectors and Sergeants Conference, Minister Benn expressed concern about potential “sleepers” within Guyana who support Venezuela’s claims to Essequibo. He stated that if a Governor appointed by Venezuela’s regime were to take office, they would be prosecuted for treason. Benn emphasized that the government is increasingly vigilant regarding Venezuelan nationals entering Guyana, showcasing recent denials of entry to Venezuelan migrants.
While acknowledging a degree of leniency for family reunifications, Benn reiterated that any backing of Venezuela’s electoral actions against Essequibo would result in serious legal repercussions. He highlighted the historical context of the border dispute, noting that Venezuela’s renewed interest coincides with its political crises.
Furthermore, Benn condemned recent Venezuelan incursions into Guyanese territorial waters and the shooting of six Guyanese soldiers as provocative actions that exacerbate tensions. He criticized the Venezuelan navy for its movements in Guyanese regions without proper identification, alleging these maneuvers are intimidation tactics rather than innocent navigation.
In light of these developments, Minister Benn reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to its territorial integrity, underscoring support from international allies such as the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union. He confirmed Guyana’s efforts to seek an injunction from the International Court to prevent Venezuela from proceeding with its planned elections for a Governor of Essequibo.
In conclusion, the escalating tensions between Guyana and Venezuela due to the latter’s planned elections for Essequibo have prompted serious warnings from Minister Robeson Benn. He emphasizes the severe legal consequences for any support of these elections while reiterating Guyana’s historical claims and the backing it receives from international partners. This situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical complexities surrounding territorial integrity in the region.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
