In recent days, Guyana has found itself inundated with a deluge of social media and local press reports concerning the alleged presence of Venezuelan troops massing along its border. Despite the growing apprehension among the Guyanese populace, there has been no official statement from the Guyanese government, its spokespersons, or the National Security Advisor. This silence has left both Guyanese residents within the country and the diaspora clamoring for official information and clarification.
The backdrop to these developments includes the recent cooling of diplomatic relations between U.S. President Joe Biden and his Venezuelan counterpart, President Maduro. This shift has been marked by a limited sale of oil and the signing of an agreement in Barbados, wherein Maduro pledged to uphold electoral guarantees for the 2024 presidential elections, potentially paving the way for the partial lifting of sanctions. It appears that these recent developments may have emboldened the Maduro government.
If the reports of Venezuelan troop movements on the border are indeed accurate, or not, it is imperative that the citizens of Guyana are promptly informed about the potential threat or actions, enabling them to prepare themselves and their families for any ensuing repercussions.
Understandably, Guyana may lack the military capabilities to deter a Venezuelan incursion. However, it is reasonable to anticipate that regional allies, such as Brazil, will not passively witness a gross violation of international law without responding to the situation.
In every nation, citizens hold a fundamental expectation that their government will act in a manner that safeguards them from harm. The primary duty of any government is to identify and inform its citizens about impending threats.
With bated breath, we hope that within the next 24 hours, official information will be forthcoming to assuage the anxieties of the Guyanese people and all individuals residing or working within Guyana’s borders.
