Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn warns against support for Venezuela’s elections in Guyana’s Essequibo, stating that it could lead to treason charges. He emphasizes enhanced vetting for Venezuelan migrants and affirms Guyana’s territorial integrity, with backing from international allies. Recent provocations by Venezuela, including naval incursions, have increased tensions in the region.
Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn has issued a stark warning concerning support for Venezuela’s planned elections for the Governor of Guyana’s Essequibo region, emphasizing potential treason charges against any individuals backing these actions. This warning comes amidst heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuela, particularly as the Venezuelan President has announced elections coinciding with Guyana’s 59th Independence anniversary, despite a 2023 International Court order prohibiting any modifications to the status of Essequibo.
Speaking at the Guyana Police Force’s Inspectors and Sergeants Conference, Minister Benn referenced the existence of “sleepers”—individuals within Guyana who may support Venezuela’s claims. He indicated that any Guyanese appointed as governor under these circumstances would face treason charges. Benn declared, “any person Guyanese or otherwise, if it’s a Guyanese who is appointed to be governor… we will charge that person for treason and lock them up.”
Benn underscored a significant shift in the approach toward Venezuelan migrants, pointing out that recent rejections of migrants from Venezuela are part of enhanced vetting procedures. He reassured that while family ties allow for some leniency, supporting Venezuela’s election plans would be met with severe consequences. He added, “They will be charged for treason and anybody who is supporting them will also be charged.”
The minister also highlighted provocative incidents, such as the naval incursions by the Venezuelan navy and the shooting of Guyanese soldiers near the border, exacerbating tensions further. He criticized the Venezuelan government for not respecting the principle of innocent passage in Guyana’s waters, asserting that their actions do not align with this principle.
Minister Benn acknowledged the ongoing support from international allies, including the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union, in defending Guyana’s territorial rights. The Guyanese government has legitimatized its stance by seeking an order from the International Court to prevent Venezuela from conducting elections for the Essequibo region.
In summary, Minister Robeson Benn’s warning underscores the serious ramifications of supporting Venezuela’s planned elections for Guyana’s Essequibo. With strong assertions of treason charges and increased scrutiny of Venezuelan migrants, Guyana aims to defend its territorial integrity amidst rising tensions. The backing of international allies further reinforces Guyana’s commitment to safeguarding its claims over Essequibo.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
