Guyana’s Home Affairs Minister warns of treason charges for supporters of Venezuelan elections in the contested Essequibo region. The government seeks intervention from the ICJ to block Venezuela’s electoral activities while deporting Venezuelans who entered illegally. The dispute over the Essequibo territory remains ongoing before the ICJ.
Guyana’s government is increasing vigilance regarding potential Venezuelan “sleepers” within its borders. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn announced that individuals supporting Venezuela’s electoral processes in the disputed Essequibo region may face treason charges. He emphasized that any Guyanese appointed following these elections would be prosecuted, stating, “…if is a Guyanese who is appointed to be Governor of Essequibo… we will charge that person for treason and lock them up.”
Guyana has requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent Venezuela from pursuing electoral activities in the Essequibo region, where sovereignty issues are presently under consideration. The government informed the ICJ of the Venezuelan elections scheduled for May 25, asserting that their preparatory activities would infringe upon Guyana’s rights and territorial integrity.
The situation arises as Venezuela claims Essequibo as part of its territory through a controversial referendum. Venezuelan officials, including President Nicolás Maduro, are proceeding with plans to elect a Governor and Legislative Council in this resource-rich area, which encompasses a significant portion of Guyana’s land.
In response to ongoing tensions, Guyana has deported 75 Venezuelans, including minors, who arrived without proper documentation. The Guyana Police Force indicated that these individuals were treated humanely before being sent back to Venezuela, emphasizing the need for compliance with immigration protocols.
Both nations are engaged in a legal dispute before the ICJ, where Guyana filed in 2018 for a decision on the legitimacy of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which delineated their borders. \n
The court recognized its jurisdiction over this matter and will ultimately rule on the issue of the border controversy.
In summary, Guyana is actively addressing the presence of Venezuelan influences within its territory, particularly in relation to the disputed Essequibo region. The government’s firm stance against treason for those supporting Venezuela’s electoral initiatives underscores its commitment to maintaining sovereignty. Engagement with the ICJ continues as both countries seek resolution regarding territorial claims, amid a backdrop of recent deportations of Venezuelan nationals who violated immigration laws.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
