Guyana is requesting provisional measures from the World Court against Venezuela’s plans to conduct elections in the Essequibo region. This follows Venezuela’s announcement of elections that violate previous ICJ orders. Guyana emphasizes the need to protect its territorial rights and sovereignty, seeking immediate hearings to prevent potential harm to its citizens.
Guyana has again approached the World Court, seeking provisional measures in light of Venezuela’s proposed elections in the Essequibo region, which belongs to Guyana. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released information indicating that a request was filed with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the 1899 arbitration award case between Guyana and Venezuela. Venezuela’s announcement regarding elections violates the ICJ’s December 2023 Order and international law norms.
Scheduled for 25 May 2025, the Venezuelan elections will precede various preparatory actions within the Essequibo region, which could potentially impact Guyana’s sovereignty and its citizens. Guyana’s press release emphasized the need for the Court to order Venezuela to refrain from any activities within Guyanese territory that may disrupt the status quo.
This marks Guyana’s second request for provisional measures from the ICJ. The initial request resulted in a December 2023 Order mandating Venezuela to maintain the current territorial situation without alterations while the case is pending. Guyana asserts that Venezuela’s election plans represent a blatant violation of this Order, necessitating a confirmation from the Court to prohibit such actions within the disputed territory and among its citizens.
Additionally, Guyana has requested the Court to expedite hearings on its provisional measures, aiming to secure judicial intervention before any irreparable harm to its rights occurs due to the Venezuelan electoral activities in the contested region.
In summary, Guyana has taken proactive legal steps by seeking provisional measures from the International Court of Justice regarding Venezuela’s planned elections in the Essequibo territory. This action underscores the continuing tensions between the two nations over territorial claims and the importance of adhering to international law. Guyana’s requests for judicial oversight aim to prevent significant harm to its sovereignty and population as the situation evolves.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
