President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s unequivocal declaration that the defence of Guyana is not optional, but a solemn national duty and the highest form of patriotism, comes at a critical juncture for our nation.

In the face of escalating provocations and armed attacks by Venezuelan civilians along our western border, this stance is both timely and necessary. It’s a plain-spoken declaration that to maintain our territorial integrity is above political expediency-or partisan opportunism-it’s a sense of responsibility shared by all Guyanese citizens.

The recent attacks on Guyana Defence Force (GDF) patrols in the Cuyuni River area indicate the gravity of the threat that is caused by Venezuela’s consistent refusal to abide by international law.

Venezuela’s attempts to illegitimately occupy the Essequibo Region, constitute a direct defiance of the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) binding orders and the peace and stability of our region.

President Ali’s condemnation of Venezuela’s “parade of arrogance” rightly highlights the unacceptable nature of these actions in a democratic and peaceful hemisphere.

One should bear in mind that the GDF’s stern patrols and judicious response are not acts of aggression but parts of its function to preserve Guyana’s sovereignty.

Brigadier Omar Khan’s threats against Venezuelan citizens and any Guyanese who take part in Venezuela’s upcoming illegal electoral process also involve the rule of law and national security.

Sternness is necessary to quell any attempts to destabilise our nation from within or without.

In addition, the international community’s support, the ICJ’s provisional measures and the ongoing case on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, supports Guyana’s legal and moral stance.

The Court’s categorical command of Venezuelanot to take any action altering the status quo in the area under Guyana’s jurisdiction is the protection that must be obeyed.

As a people, we must heed President Ali’s charge to “fly the Golden Arrowhead high” and claim our shared heritage and responsibility.

Defence of our nation is not the responsibility of the army; it is an act of patriotism that requires harmony, watchfulness, and unwavering devotion from all Guyanese.

United, abiding by the rule of law and in support of our security organs, we firmly assert that Guyana’s sovereignty is inviolable.

President Ali’s leadership and the GDF’s preparedness inspire confidence that Guyana will meet these challenges head-on, preserving our sovereignty for generations to come.