Aubrey Norton, the Leader of the Opposition in Guyana, has called for a significant enhancement of the country’s military capabilities due to increasing aggression from Venezuela, including territorial claims and recent incursions. He emphasizes the importance of training, equipment, and strategic communication to ensure national security and public awareness regarding the territorial dispute.
Aubrey Norton, the Leader of the Opposition in Guyana, has advocated for a significant enhancement of the nation’s military capabilities in light of escalating aggression from Venezuela. This call comes amidst Venezuela’s recent actions, including the construction of a bridge on Ankoko Island and a referendum claiming parts of Guyana’s territory, which violate International Court of Justice (ICJ) orders.
Norton highlighted the urgency during a recent press conference, noting a recent incident involving a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel entering Guyanese waters. He emphasized the necessity for Guyana to bolster its defence forces in response to these provocations, advocating for an increase in military training and equipment. “We need to buy more weapons and that we need to train our people in jungle warfare,” stated Mr. Norton, confirming the need for heightened preparedness.
Moreover, Norton expressed concerns regarding the current government’s approach to Venezuelan migration, suggesting that it might undermine national security. He warned that Venezuelan migrants could be used to infiltrate and destabilize Guyanese society, and criticized the government for treating this issue too lightly without a comprehensive strategy.
He further reiterated the importance of employing technology to enhance the monitoring capabilities of Guyana’s waters and airspace, asserting that the country possesses the financial means to support such military enhancements. Following the Venezuelan incursion, he met with President Irfaan Ali but refrained from discussing governmental strategies, expressing disappointment over the lack of action on past opposition recommendations to address the territorial controversy.
Norton emphasized the need for immediate and proactive measures to deter Venezuela’s aggression, stating, “Even if the International Court of Justice rules in our favor, that in itself will not prevent Venezuela.” He criticized the delay in launching a strategic public relations campaign to educate the public on the ongoing territorial issues, highlighting the significance of a well-informed populace in fostering national resilience.
In conclusion, the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, has articulated the pressing need for Guyana to fortify its military in response to Venezuelan aggression. His call for enhanced training, equipment, and a strategic public engagement campaign underscores the urgency of addressing both national security and territorial integrity. Without decisive action and public awareness, Norton warns that Guyana may struggle to effectively deter further Venezuelan incursions.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
