The Guyanese government warns of treason charges against those cooperating with Venezuelan election efforts concerning the Essequibo region. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn confirmed awareness of Venezuelan ‘sleepers’ in Guyana. Additionally, Guyana has requested the ICJ to prevent Venezuela from conducting elections in the disputed area, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding territorial sovereignty.
In Georgetown, a senior official from the Guyanese government revealed that they are aware of the presence of Venezuelan “sleepers” within their borders. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn noted that anyone who supports the appointment of a governor or officials in the disputed Essequibo region following Venezuela’s elections will face treason charges. He affirmed that any individual, including Guyanese nationals, found endorsing or accepting such appointments will be prosecuted for treason.
Minister Benn specified, “if is a Guyanese who is appointed to be Governor of Essequibo and be placed at Anna Regina – we will charge that person for treason and lock them up; each and every one of them.” He also emphasized that all supporters of this endeavor would likewise face charges. This warning was shared during a police conference, underscoring the government’s serious stance on the matter.
Recently, Guyana submitted a request to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent Venezuela from conducting electoral activities in the Essequibo region, amidst an ongoing border dispute between the two nations. Guyana informed the ICJ of the scheduled Venezuelan elections on May 25, recognizing that it may provoke further actions in the Essequibo region, which is a source of concern regarding its sovereignty.
The Guyanese Foreign Ministry stated, “Therefore, in order to preserve its rights, Guyana is requesting that the Court order Venezuela to refrain from any acts within or affecting its sovereign territory, including the Essequibo region.” Venezuela’s government, led by President Nicolás Maduro and National Electoral Council chairman Elvis Amoroso, has declared plans to hold elections for a governor and legislative council in the region, which they have claimed through a controversial referendum.
In 2023, Venezuela asserted that a majority of eligible voters had participated in a referendum supporting their claim over the Essequibo, which constitutes a significant portion of Guyana’s territory and includes a considerable segment of Guyana’s population. Both Guyana and Venezuela are currently involved in a legal dispute at the ICJ regarding the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, with the Court having accepted jurisdiction in the matter.
Meanwhile, in response to the ongoing situation, Guyana has deported 75 Venezuelan individuals, including nine children, who recently arrived in a wooden boat near Essequibo Coast. Authorities confirmed that these individuals were treated humanely and deported after failing to report to immigration while entering through the Atlantic Ocean.
The Guyanese government holds a firm stance against Venezuelan electoral activities in the disputed Essequibo region, warning of treason charges for any supporting individuals. Furthermore, Guyana continues to seek judicial intervention through the ICJ regarding the territorial dispute stemming from historical agreements. The ongoing actions highlight the complexities and tensions between Guyana and Venezuela concerning their border and the implications for their respective populations.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
