Guyana has filed a request for provisional measures with the ICJ to counteract Venezuela’s plans for elections in the disputed Essequibo region. This action aims to protect Guyana’s territorial rights, claiming such elections violate previous court orders. Guyana seeks the Court’s directive against any Venezuelan activities in the claimed territory to safeguard its sovereignty and citizens.
Guyana has officially filed a request for provisional measures from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning Venezuela’s proposed elections in the Essequibo region, which is claimed by Guyana. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated that this move aims to protect Guyana’s sovereignty and rights regarding its territory, which Venezuela has attempted to annex contrary to international legal norms and previous court orders.
As per the press release, the Venezuelan elections are set for May 25, 2025, which will be preceded by actions in the Essequibo region that could affect the local population and infringe upon Guyanese sovereignty. To preemptively safeguard its territorial rights, Guyana has requested the ICJ to compel Venezuela to refrain from any actions within its sovereign territory, particularly in the disputed area.
This request marks the second time Guyana has sought provisional measures from the World Court. The first request led to the Court’s directive on December 1, 2023, instructing Venezuela to avoid any actions that would alter the current control of the territory, which is being administered by Guyana.
In its latest filing, Guyana asserts that the planned Venezuelan elections contravene the earlier Court Order and is seeking an explicit prohibition against any electoral activities in the disputed territory or impacting its citizens. Additionally, the country has asked for expedited hearings on this matter to ensure that preventive measures can be implemented before Guyana’s rights are significantly compromised.
In summary, Guyana is proactively seeking the intervention of the International Court of Justice to safeguard its territorial integrity in light of Venezuela’s electoral plans for the Essequibo region. The formal request underscores the ongoing dispute and the necessity for legal measures to uphold international law and protect the rights of the Guyanese population. Guyana seeks clarity and immediate action from the Court to prevent irreparable damage to its sovereignty.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
