Guyana Warns of Treason Charges Amid Venezuelan Election Plans in Essequibo
Guyana warns of treason charges for supporters of Venezuela’s election in the disputed Essequibo region, revealing awareness of Venezuelan “sleepers”. The government has sought intervention from the ICJ to block electoral activities that threaten its sovereignty. Additionally, Guyana deported 75 Venezuelans who entered via an unauthorized route.
The government of Guyana is addressing concerns regarding the presence of Venezuelan “sleepers” within its territory, warning that individuals supporting Venezuela’s recent election efforts in the disputed Essequibo region may be charged with treason. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn stated that any Guyanese or foreign national appointed following these elections will face severe legal consequences, emphasizing that treason charges will apply to both the appointed individuals and their supporters.
Additionally, Guyana has formally requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague to prevent Venezuela from conducting electoral activities that could impact the Essequibo region, amidst an ongoing border dispute. The Foreign Ministry stressed that the Venezuelan elections are scheduled for May 25, which would directly infringe upon Guyana’s sovereignty.
Venezuela is expected to hold elections for a governor and legislative council in the Essequibo region, which it claims despite being internationally recognized as part of Guyana. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and electoral official Elvis Amoroso have expressed plans to conduct these elections in an area rich in oil resources, which constitutes a significant portion of Guyana’s land.
The ongoing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela is presently before the ICJ, which is reviewing the arbitration award established on October 3, 1899, that demarcated the border between the two nations. Cartoonish claims by Caracas regarding popular support for asserting control over Essequibo were also highlighted, as they alleged that a referendum indicated overwhelming voter support.
In a related development, Guyana has recently deported 75 Venezuelans, including nine minors, who were found using an unregulated route to enter the country. These individuals were treated humanely and provided with necessary provisions before being sent back to Venezuela, as detailed in a statement from the Guyana Police Force.
The Guyanese government remains vigilant towards activities perceived as an infringement of its sovereignty by Venezuela, especially regarding the planned elections in the disputed Essequibo region. The potential treason charges against supporters of these elections underscore the seriousness of the situation. With the involvement of the ICJ in adjudicating the long-standing border dispute, the dynamics between Guyana and Venezuela continue to evolve amidst heightened tensions and immigration issues.
Original Source: trinidadexpress.com
