Aubrey Norton Advocates for Strengthening Guyana’s Military Amid Venezuelan Threats
Aubrey Norton, the Opposition Leader in Guyana, has called for a significant enhancement of military capabilities amidst increasing Venezuelan aggression over territorial claims. He highlighted recent incursions into Guyanese waters and advocated for improved training and resources for the Guyana Defence Force. Norton criticized the government’s responses and emphasized the need for a strategic public relations campaign to inform citizens about the territorial dispute.
Aubrey Norton, the Leader of the Opposition in Guyana, emphasizes the necessity for a substantial enhancement of the nation’s military capabilities in light of growing threats from Venezuela, which persists in its territorial claims against Guyana. Recent actions by Venezuela, including the construction of a bridge on Ankoko Island and the so-called referendum regarding the Essequibo Region, indicate escalating aggression contrary to the rulings of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The last week witnessed a Venezuelan Coast Guard incursion into Guyanese waters, alongside discussions in Venezuela regarding the appointment of a Governor for the Essequibo region. Mr. Norton advocates for an increase in the resources allocated to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to better prepare against such incursions. “We need to buy more weapons and that we need to train our people in jungle warfare, intensify that training,” he stated, suggesting a return to training levels from the 1970s to ensure readiness in case of an invasion.
Additionally, Mr. Norton highlights a recurring pattern of hostility, linking the recent coast guard incident to an attack on Guyanese military personnel at the border. He criticizes the government’s handling of Venezuelan migration, arguing it is merely a political tool for electoral purposes. Norton warns that the Venezuelan government could be using this situation to infiltrate and destabilize Guyana’s society.
Moreover, he insists that to counter potential aggression, Guyana must enhance its technological capabilities for monitoring air and maritime spaces. Norton asserts that the country possesses the financial resources necessary to bolster its military. Following the recent incursion, he met with President Irfaan Ali but was unable to disclose certain governmental strategies in response to Venezuela’s actions.
Norton expressed disappointment over the inaction regarding previous opposition recommendations, which included increasing diplomatic outreach throughout Latin America, launching a public relations campaign to inform citizens about the territorial dispute, and forming a border commission. He reiterated that comprehensive preparedness and international advocacy are crucial in deterring Venezuelan aggression. “Even if the International Court of Justice rules in our favor… we must do everything in our capacity to ensure we deter Venezuela,” he stated. Furthermore, he criticized the delays in the planned public relations campaign endorsed by President Ali to raise awareness among Guyanese about the ongoing territorial controversy.
In conclusion, Aubrey Norton stresses the imperative need for Guyana to bolster its military capabilities in response to Venezuelan threats. He asserts that with proper training and resources, Guyana can better prepare for potential aggressions. Norton calls for more effective strategic actions at both local and international levels to raise awareness and garner support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, urging the government to take accountability for past recommendations that remain unimplemented. Proper military readiness coupled with diplomatic engagement is vital for maintaining national security against external threats from Venezuela.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
