Guyana Warns of Treason Charges Over Venezuelan Electoral Activities in Essequibo

Guyana’s government warns of treason charges for support of Venezuelan elections in the Essequibo region. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn highlights awareness of ‘sleepers’ and the recent deportation of Venezuelans as part of border management. The country seeks legal support from the ICJ to protect its territorial claims against Venezuela’s electoral activities.

Georgetown officials have recently acknowledged the presence of Venezuelan “sleepers” in their country, with Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, emphasizing the potential for treason charges against anyone supporting Venezuela’s electoral processes involving the disputed Essequibo region. He stated that such individuals, particularly those appointed as governor, would face severe legal consequences.

During a police conference, Minister Benn expressed that the government is vigilant against any involvement in Venezuela’s attempts to assert control over the Essequibo territory. He stated, “We will charge that person for treason and lock them up; each and every one of them.” This declaration aligns with Guyana’s appeal to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent Venezuela from conducting electoral events that could disrupt Guyana’s sovereignty.

The Venezuelan government, under President Nicolás Maduro, has announced plans to hold elections for a governor and legislative council, despite Guyana’s ongoing legal disputes over territory claims. Notably, the Essequibo region is rich in oil and comprises approximately two-thirds of Guyana’s total land area, incorporating around 125,000 citizens.

In March 2018, Guyana initiated proceedings at the ICJ to address the validity of the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899, which established the land boundary between the two nations. With the ICJ confirming its jurisdiction over the dispute, Guyana seeks a resolution that respects its territorial integrity.

In a related move, Guyana has deported a group of 75 Venezuelans, including children, who arrived illegally by boat. The Guyana Police Force reported that these individuals were treated humanely before being escorted back to Venezuela, emphasizing compliance with immigration laws.

In summary, the Guyanese government is taking a firm stance against Venezuelan electoral actions in the contested Essequibo region, warning of treason charges for any local support. Guyana’s commitment to defending its sovereignty is underscored by its legal actions at the ICJ while simultaneously managing border security by deporting illegal entrants. The situation remains tense, with the potential for significant geopolitical repercussions if these tensions persist.

Original Source: trinidadexpress.com