Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo stated Venezuela is in a weak position, making inappropriate claims while Guyana continues to pursue all diplomatic avenues for resolving disputes over the Essequibo region. Jagdeo confirmed support from international partners and detailed Guyana’s request for urgent ICJ intervention against Venezuela’s electoral plans seen as illegal. He denounced recent derogatory comments from Venezuelan officials about President Ali and emphasized the potential harm of delays in court intervention to Guyana’s sovereignty.
In a recent press conference, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo emphasized that Venezuela is currently in a weak position, as it has made what he categorizes as “infantile” statements amidst escalating tensions with Guyana. He reaffirmed that Guyana is steadfast in its efforts to engage the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and its international allies regarding the situation.
Jagdeo pointed to Venezuela’s violations of a December 2023 ICJ ruling and the Argyle Declaration, particularly concerning its intention to conduct elections in the Essequibo region, which it claims. This electoral plan is perceived by Guyana as a significant infringement on the Court’s directives and international law.
The Venezuelan elections, set for May 25, 2025, are viewed by Guyana as actions that could directly impact both the residents of Essequibo and the nation’s territorial integrity. To address this, the Guyanese government has requested urgent intervention from the ICJ to halt Venezuela’s electoral activities and prevent any actions that may alter the current territorial status.
Jagdeo further asserted strong international support for Guyana’s position, citing backing from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the Caribbean Community. He criticized Venezuelan officials for their derogatory remarks about President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who has been likened to Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a form of insult.
This engagement with the ICJ marks Guyana’s second pursuit of provisional measures from the Court, following a successful initial request in late 2023, where the Court ordered Venezuela to refrain from actions that would alter the disputed territory’s status. The Guyanese administration is anxious that any delay in court intervention could lead to irreversible damage to its sovereignty and the rights of Essequibo residents.
In summary, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has reiterated Guyana’s commitment to addressing recent Venezuelan actions that threaten its territorial integrity. With strong international support and a firm stance at the ICJ, Guyana seeks urgent intervention to prevent Venezuela from pursuing its electoral plans in the disputed Essequibo region. The government’s proactive measures highlight its dedication to safeguarding its sovereignty and the rights of its citizens.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
