Guyana has sought intervention from the UN’s highest court after Venezuela announced plans to hold elections in the disputed Essequibo region. This follows the approval of a Venezuelan referendum asserting territorial claims. Guyana’s request for provisional measures aims to protect its sovereignty over the territory as the conflict escalates, particularly in light of recent oil discoveries.
On Thursday, Guyana appealed to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) following Venezuela’s announcement to conduct elections within the Essequibo region, a territory both nations contest. Scheduled for May 25, these elections would involve selecting governors for states, including Essequibo, which Guyana has administered for over a century. Venezuelan legislative actions have intensified this dispute, particularly after a December 2023 referendum revealed 95 percent voter approval for Venezuela’s claim to the territory.
In response to Venezuela’s plans, Guyana has filed a request for provisional measures at the ICJ, emphasizing that Essequibo is integral to its national territory. The country seeks a court order prohibiting any actions from Venezuela that would affect its sovereignty over the region, which accounts for two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and houses approximately 125,000 citizens.
Historically, Essequibo’s borders were set by an arbitration panel in 1899, a decision Guyana maintains is valid. Conversely, Venezuela asserts that the Essequibo River has been recognized as a natural boundary since 1777. The dispute gained momentum in 2015 following ExxonMobil’s discovery of substantial oil reserves in Essequibo, escalating in 2023 when Guyana began auctioning oil blocks in the area.
In December 2023, the ICJ had previously issued provisional measures directing Venezuela to refrain from any actions concerning the contested territory. Guyana argued that the planned electoral process directly violates this ruling. Consequently, Guyana’s foreign ministry called for a prompt hearing with the ICJ. Additionally, tensions escalated when the United States condemned Venezuelan naval vessels for allegedly threatening an ExxonMobil unit in waters claimed by Guyana.
Guyana’s appeal to the ICJ underscores the escalating territorial dispute with Venezuela over the Essequibo region, particularly in light of Venezuela’s recent electoral plans. The ongoing conflict has seen increased international attention, with decisions made by the ICJ crucial in affirming territorial sovereignty. Guyana continues to advocate for its rights while seeking judicial intervention amidst rising tensions in the region.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
