Guyana Requests ICJ to Block Venezuelan Elections in Esequibo Region

Guyana has petitioned the ICJ to stop Venezuela from holding elections in the disputed Esequibo region, claiming it violates a 2023 ruling. The Venezuelan government plans elections, creating tensions after recent maritime encounters. Guyana seeks expedited hearings to protect its rights amid ongoing territorial disputes.

On Thursday, Guyana formally requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent Venezuela from carrying out provincial elections, scheduled for May 25, in the disputed region of Esequibo. The Guyanese foreign ministry argued that holding these elections would contravene a previous court ruling. This request comes amidst ongoing tensions regarding the territorial dispute and a recent law enacted by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, which established a new state in this contested area.

The ICJ’s 2023 ruling instructed Venezuela to abstain from actions that would alter the status quo in Esequibo, an area spanning approximately 160,000 square kilometers (62,000 square miles). Guyana’s statement emphasized that the planned elections would “flagrantly violate” this directive. Furthermore, Guyana has called for prompt hearings to avert potential “serious and irremediable prejudice” to its rights due to Venezuela’s actions.

Recently, tensions escalated when a Venezuelan coast guard patrol allegedly entered Guyanese waters near an offshore oil installation operated by ExxonMobil. Venezuela’s government has asserted that the area in question remains a maritime zone that is yet to be defined under international law. A conclusive decision from the ICJ regarding the Esequibo dispute may take several years to reach.

Guyana has taken a decisive step by requesting the ICJ to halt Venezuela’s election plans in Esequibo, emphasizing the violation of international rulings. With escalating tensions and claims over territorial rights, both nations are closely monitored as the ICJ deliberates on this pivotal issue. The potential for prolonged conflict remains as Guyana emphasizes the urgency of its request, with a final ICJ decision pending for the foreseeable future.

Original Source: www.usnews.com