… on Guyana-Venezuela border controversy

AFTER years of lobbying, Guyana is successful in having the territorial controversy with Venezuela referred to the International Court of Justice.

On January 30, 2018, the United Nations Secretary General spokesman, Stéphane Dujarric announced that Mr Antonio Guterres has fulfilled the responsibility that has fallen on him within the framework set by his predecessor, Mr Ban Ki-moon in December 2016, and has chosen the ICJ as the means to be used for the solution of the controversy.

He had noted that no significant progress had been made at the level of the Good Offices process over the last year.

The news has been welcomed by the Guyana Government, though rejected by the Venezuelan Government. This week, we spoke with some of the Mayors of Guyana on the decision of the UN Secretary General and its importance to Guyana. Here are their views:

Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland
The Guyana/Venezuela controversy necessitates the stimulating of nationalist or patriotic fervour. Too many of our people are unaware of the ramifications of the controversy and its potential for irreparable consequences. While I am adamantly optimistic that as a nation we will travail over this challenge, I also view this challenge with hope for strengthening the ties that bind us as a nation. It is my opinion that this controversy creates room for us to promulgate an agenda that stimulates nationalistic sentiments among our people.

Venezuela was doing that for years and have brainwashed their people into believing a lie, so we need to get the right education out to our people. This is a time when the leader of the opposition needs to be heard championing this cause and seen standing next to our President in full support of Guyana’s move to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). It will demonstrate cohesion rather than partisan politics at a time when it is most necessary.

Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall
I’m heartened at the news of the decision by the Secretary General of the United Nations to refer the controversy between Guyana and Venezuela to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Guyana has saddled the effects of this century old controversy.

This I believe would have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and an unnecessary burden to the people of Guyana.
Moreso, future generations of our country should not have to face the uncertainty of this border issue. An early resolution will most certainly be welcomed by all. Further, the APNU+ AFC Government’s commitment to finding a resolution is most commendable.

What’s most commendable is not only the “political will” to resolve the controversy but the peaceful method that was chosen. We live in a world where peaceful solutions are a rare option.

As a result, we the people of Bartica support the Government and offer our best wishes for a positive outcome.

Mayor of Mabaruma, Henry Smith
The United Nations (UN) Secretary General’s decision to refer the Guyana/Venezuela Border Controversy is the correct approach because this matter has been pending for too long. Since in the late 1980s early 1990s when I was a headmaster in the Yarakita/Haulingover Area – an area bordering the two countries, Venezuelan helicopters frequently circled the area, one even landed on the cricket field.

At Mabaruma, they use to fly low low as though they were going to touch down, taunting Guyanese soldiers. Today, many years after, we are concerned about the high influx of Venezuelans in Mabaruma; you would believe you are in Caracas…and we are also concerned about our safety. So yes, I am pleased that the border controversy will be going to the ICJ for final settlement. It is time our territory be respected.

Mayor of Anna Regina, Rabindranauth Mohan
I believe that it is the best thing that could’ve happened since the other options have been exhausted. I am also aware that this issue was settled with the 1899 Arbitral Award of the boundaries and therefore any claim by Venezuela is null and void. I am in full support of the Government’s position in leaving no stone unturned in having this matter settled once and for all. I appeal to all Guyanese to stand steadfast in support and in defense of our Independence and territorial integrity.

Mayor of Corriverton, Krishnand Jaichand
The decision by the UN Secretary General to send the Guyana/Venezuela Border Controversy to the International Court of Justice is most welcomed by the people of Corriverton and should be respected by all. Venezuela’s claim that the 1899 Award is null and void is indeed a baseless claim, it lacks merit. As [our]country prepares for a judicial settlement, we must remain united and continue to educate ourselves on the facts about the controversy.