Guyana Issues Warning Against Venezuelan Allegiances in Essequibo Region

Guyana warns of treason for supporting Venezuelan governance in Essequibo, following Minister Benn’s statement. The country has engaged the ICJ to block Venezuelan elections in the disputed region and recently deported 75 Venezuelans. The ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela continues to escalate as legal proceedings unfold.

In Georgetown, a senior official from the Guyanese government has stated that authorities are aware of Venezuelan individuals, referred to as “sleepers,” operating within the country. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn cautioned that anyone supporting Venezuela’s election to govern the disputed Essequibo region will face treason charges. He emphasized that appointing a Governor in Essequibo would result in severe legal consequences for the appointed individuals.

Minister Benn highlighted Guyana’s vigilance by mentioning the identification and monitoring of these “sleepers.” He reiterated that Guyana will pursue charges against any national who collaborates with the Venezuelan regime, particularly those involved in the governance of the contested region. Benn’s remarks were made during a conference aimed at law enforcement officials.

Last week, Guyana formally requested that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) prevent Venezuela from proceeding with electoral activities in the Essequibo region while a border dispute case is ongoing. The Guyanese Foreign Ministry communicated concerns to the Court regarding the scheduled Venezuelan elections and their implications for Guyana’s territorial integrity.

Venezuela’s government claims the Essequibo region as part of its territory based on a referendum and plans to conduct elections for a Governor and Legislative Council in the area. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced intentions to include Essequibo in upcoming electoral processes despite ongoing legal disputes.

In 2023, the Venezuelan administration alleged that a significant turnout in a recent referendum demonstrated support for asserting claims over Essequibo. The ICJ is currently reviewing a case initiated by Guyana in 2018, which addresses the validity of an 1899 Arbitral Award that delineated the boundary between the two nations.

Amid these tensions, Guyana has taken action by deporting 75 Venezuelans, including children, who entered the country without proper documentation. The Guyana Police Force confirmed that the deportees were treated humanely and returned with assistance from the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard. This action reflects Guyana’s strict adherence to immigration regulations amidst the ongoing territorial dispute with Venezuela.

In conclusion, the Guyanese government is on high alert regarding Venezuelan individuals in its territory, threatening treason charges against anyone supporting foreign governance in the contested Essequibo region. The engagement with the ICJ underscores the complexity of the geopolitical landscape, while the deportation of undocumented Venezuelans reflects Guyana’s commitment to managing borders effectively. The evolving situation remains critical as both nations navigate their legal and diplomatic obligations.

Original Source: trinidadexpress.com