PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday confirmed that Guyana’s security forces are on alert following reports of gunfire from the Venezuelan shore on the eve of the national elections.
Speaking after casting his ballot in Leonora yesterday morning, the president acknowledged that the incident was “concerning”, but stressed that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and police are fully prepared to protect the country’s sovereignty.

“Of course, it’s concerning; the security forces are on full alert. They have their strength, and they’re ready… They have the equipment, and we have to understand the threat of Venezuela,” he said.

The incident occurred late Sunday as officers were transporting ballots and GECOM staff by boat in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
Although no injuries were reported, the exchange highlighted the persistent security risks Guyana faces along its western frontier.

Venezuela continues to lay claim to Guyana’s oil-rich Essequibo region, despite the border controversy being before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Ali emphasised that his government has already invested heavily in the military, improving equipment, mobility, and technology.

“The Guyana Defence Force has been beefed up; it’s not only troops, but they are in a better position. We have invested a lot, as you know, in the military,” he told reporters.
On whether Guyana supports US-led efforts in the region, Ali reiterated his administration’s position: “We support democracy; we will support anything to eliminate any threat to our security. We view our sovereignty very seriously, but this region must remain a Zone of Peace.”

International observers from CARICOM, the Commonwealth, and the OAS are monitoring Monday’s polls.
The President insisted that voters should not be distracted.
“Today is a beautiful day; we are voting for victory today,” he said, adding:
“The security forces are on top of it.”