Guyana’s government warns against Venezuelan ‘sleepers’ supporting elections in the disputed Essequibo region, threatening treason charges. They have approached the ICJ to block Venezuela from holding elections affecting their sovereignty, amidst ongoing border disputes. Additionally, Guyana has deported 75 Venezuelans who arrived unlawfully.
Guyana’s government, through Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, has raised alarms about the presence of Venezuelan “sleepers” in the country. Those individuals supporting Venezuela’s planned elections for the disputed Essequibo region could face treason charges. Benn emphasized that any Guyanese appointed as governor or officials by Venezuela would be prosecuted under these laws, stating, “We will charge that person for treason and lock them up.”
In light of the upcoming Venezuelan elections set for May 25, Guyana has engaged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent Venezuela from conducting electoral activities that could impact the Essequibo region and affect Guyana’s sovereignty. The Foreign Ministry asserted the need for the Court to intervene based on the potential ramifications of Venezuela’s actions within Guyana’s territorial claims.
Venezuela, premised on a controversial referendum, is including Guyana’s Essequibo Region in its national map, planning elections for a “Governor” and Legislative Council there. This contested area, rich in oil, comprises two-thirds of Guyana and houses a significant portion of its population. President Nicolás Maduro and the National Electoral Council chairman have announced their electoral intentions despite the region’s disputed status.
The ongoing legal case concerning the 1899 Arbitral Award, presented by Guyana in March 2018 to resolve the territory disputes, remains with the ICJ. Meanwhile, the Court has acknowledged its jurisdiction to address the matter.
In a related development, Guyana deported 75 Venezuelans, including children, who had recently arrived via boat. The police reported that these individuals were treated humanely prior to their return to Venezuela, emphasizing adherence to immigration protocols.
Guyana’s government is taking assertive measures against Venezuelan electoral activities in the Essequibo region, labeling any supporting individuals as potential traitors. The matter is further complicated by ongoing legal disputes at the ICJ regarding territorial claims. As tensions rise, international scrutiny continues concerning both countries’ actions and sovereignty.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
