Exploring a myriad of potential courses of action, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has sought to reassure the citizens of Guyana, assuaging any fears that may have arisen due to recent manoeuvres by the Maduro regime. This proclamation was delivered during recent engagements with residents of Port Kaituma, Region One, shedding light on the renewed attempts by the Venezuelan government to assert territorial claims over land rightfully belonging to Guyana. These claims have resurfaced following a final and legally binding agreement under the 1899 Arbitral Award.
In tandem with President Ali’s assurances, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has emphasized the preparedness of Guyana for any potential outcome, articulating a steadfast commitment to keeping all options open in the face of what is perceived as Venezuelan aggression. Dr. Jagdeo disclosed impending visits from the United States Department of Defence, underscoring Guyana’s resolute stance and dedication to exploring every conceivable avenue in the escalating controversy with its South American neighbour.
While fervently asserting Guyana’s unwavering dedication to preserving peace within its borders, Dr. Jagdeo concurrently highlighted the nation’s active engagements with international allies, illustrating a proactive approach to preparing for a spectrum of potential scenarios. He says, “We are committed to maintaining peace in our country and our borders, but we are going to be working with our allies to ensure that we plan for all eventualities.”
Unmistakably unified on the issue of national sovereignty and territorial integrity, both the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the main political opposition, the APNU+AFC, have unequivocally communicated their shared resolve to repel any attempts by Venezuela to lay claim to Essequibo, an expansive region constituting approximately two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.
Amidst the geopolitical tension, Guyana is fervently seeking a peaceful resolution to the controversy within the established framework of international law. In alignment with this diplomatic approach, the nation has sought the intervention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent any precipitous action by Venezuela, particularly considering a planned referendum scheduled for December 3.
Commendation is due to the PPP/C’s composed yet resolute management of the border issue, especially given the recent provocative actions by the Maduro administration. Despite the outwardly aggressive stance taken by Venezuela, both President Ali and Vice-President Dr. Jagdeo have reassured the Guyanese populace, particularly those residing in bordering communities, urging them not to be swayed by messages emanating from their South American neighbour and to remain focused on the collective task of nation-building.
Guyanese officials are meticulously monitoring unfolding events and are deploying all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens. President Ali, in a resonant call to action, urged the nation to concentrate on community and national development, steadfastly asserting, “Let us concentrate on building our community, the building of our region, the building of our children, the building of our children and our women, the building of our education sector, the building of our health sector. Let no one distract us from Guyana stronger; stronger together.”
In the face of overt hostility and provocation by Venezuela, Guyana remains resolute in its commitment to peace and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict within the confines of international law. President Ali encapsulated this determination, stating, “We remain a friend and a neighbour, we remain a peaceful zone, and we will do everything in our power to ensure this region remains a zone of peace, remains a region of love, remains a region of hope; this is the ambition of Guyana.”
The unwavering sentiment expressed by the nation’s leadership underscores a vision of a prosperous and unfettered future for Guyana, undeterred by external actions with potentially nefarious designs.
Vedan Choolun, London, UK