–as country stands together to resist Venezuela’s actions
GUYANESE stood together in a peaceful but strong display of unity last week, as the nation reaffirmed its position in the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.
The display of national unity unfolded across the country leading up to the December 3 Venezuelan referendum on Guyana’s Essequibo.

While the Government of Venezuela conducted its referendum which included questions that threaten Guyana’s territorial integrity, Guyanese maintained the position of peace and commitment to the Rule of Law but stood together to debunk Venezuela’s unfounded actions.

In Region Two, the Anna Regina car park became a symbol of tranquility and optimism, with religious leaders offering prayers and President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali delivering a passionate speech. Against a backdrop of a faint drizzles, President Ali reassured the nation of its firm commitment to the Rule of Law, emphasising the collective strength of the Guyanese people.

“We are all together under the one banner of humanity, and we are all together under the one banner of Guyanese. Whether we are from Essequibo, Berbice, or Demerara, we are cemented together under that one beautiful concept that we are Guyanese,” President Ali said.
The President highlighted the resilience of Guyanese, expressing confidence that the nation would face and overcome any challenges.

“Essequibo belongs to Guyana, and it belongs to every single Guyanese,” he asserted, emphasising the nation’s foundation of truth, honour, and dignity.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, echoed sentiments of national pride and unity, emphasising the peaceful display of patriotism.

He reassured the populace, stating, “We may have our differences, but at the end of the day, we are One People, One Nation, and One Destiny, and we will always be proud of that.”
Regional leaders across the country echoed similar sentiments, commending the bravery and commitment displayed by citizens.

Regional Chairman of Region One, Brentol Ashley, described the events as a “tremendous success” and emphasised the unity that prevailed throughout the region.
He said, “Our people displayed a true sense of bravery and commitment towards defending their nation, and we saw how patriotic they were. It was a calm and beautiful day, filled with love and unity, and we intend to keep it that way, with our president’s leadership and our people standing with him.”

The unity displayed last week reflects a collective spirit of patriotism and resilience among the Guyanese people in the face of external challenges.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), on Friday, ordered that pending the decision of the substantive case regarding the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action that would modify the situation that currently prevails over the territory in dispute, which Guyana administers and exercises control over.