THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union’s (GAWU) General Council met on Friday at the Union’s Headquarters, where a presentation on the Guyana-Venezuela controversy and the aggressive and subliminal measures used by Caracas over the years to exert its influence over the development of Essequibo, was made by former Foreign Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee.

According to a press release from the Union, the General Council, which is its highest decision-making forum outside of its Congress, is deeply concerned about the current aggressive stance adopted by Venezuela towards Guyana’s Essequibo region.

The release added that during his presentation, Rohee explained that the current approach by the Venezuelan leadership was unprecedented.

The Council, while discussing the situation, shared the belief that it was important to put partisan interests aside in the defence of country and state.

“The General Council was heartened by the all-round display of national unity and the collective and unified approach taken by national leaders from both sides of the divide.”

“The Council was fortified in its belief that Essequibo belongs to Guyana and no other country. It viewed the actions of Venezuela as downright bullyism and denounced the actions of the Nicholas Maduro Government,” the release said.

Further, it was emphasised that the Council fully supports the actions of the government to protect our national territory and recognises the support of many friendly nations who are standing in the defence of our country.

“It (the Council) singled out the effort of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali who has led from the front and who has vowed to ensure that our people and country are protected, and our territory is not infringed. The Council also anticipates further support from our allies in assisting in defence of our frontiers,” the release said.
Meanwhile, it was noted that the Council is also saddened by the loss of five brave men who tragically lost their lives in supporting measures to safeguard our country.

According to the release, the Council expresses its deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who perished as it urged that they be comforted by the fact that the men were doing their part in protecting us all.

“They were all recognised as national heroes, and their lives and sacrifice must be celebrated and their contributions must be remembered. The Council, at that juncture, also expressed its appreciation to all our men and women working in defence of our country at this critical time,” the release added.