Guyana’s Interior Minister warns that supporting Venezuelan elections in Essequibo could lead to treason charges. The country has heightened security and aims to protect its sovereignty amid escalating tensions with Venezuela, which has plans to hold local elections in the disputed territory. Guyana is pursuing legal action in the International Court of Justice to counter these developments.
Guyana’s Interior Minister Robeson Benn cautioned that support for Venezuela’s upcoming elections in the disputed Essequibo region could lead to treason charges. He instructed that any Guyanese or resident participating in these elections will face serious legal repercussions, asserting, “We will charge that person for treason and lock them up.” Minister Benn emphasized the country’s responsibility to protect its sovereignty amid growing tensions with Venezuela.
The internal security measures have intensified, demonstrated by the recent denial of entry to 75 Venezuelan migrants as part of stringent background checks. Minister Benn highlighted past incidents, such as the intrusion of a Venezuelan naval vessel into Guyanese waters and the shooting of six Guyanese soldiers, which have exacerbated tensions between the nations. He also noted Guyana’s appeal to the International Court of Justice to prevent the Venezuelan elections from proceeding as planned.
Venezuela’s government, under Interior and Justice Minister Diosdado Cabello, has announced elections for a governor and eight legislators in Essequibo scheduled for May 23. This follows Venezuela’s unilateral referendum in December 2023 to claim the contested territory of Essequibo, which Guyana has governed since 1966. Guyana views these elections as a violation of the Argyle Agreement aimed at peaceful resolution.
The historical context traces back to the Paris Arbitration Award of 1899, which awarded the region to British Guiana. Following declarations from Venezuela to nullify this award and the subsequent Geneva Agreement of 1966, both countries have sought resolution through the International Court of Justice, although Venezuela refutes its authority concerning the dispute.
In summary, Guyana has issued a stern warning against any political support for Venezuela’s elections in the disputed Essequibo region. The government is prepared to impose treason charges on violators while reinforcing border security to maintain national sovereignty. Tensions are escalating, particularly in light of past military encounters and recent Venezuelan initiatives to claim authority over the region, which Guyana contests through international legal channels.
Original Source: efe.com
