President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Thursday visited Mabaruma, Region One (Barima- Waini), and engaged scores of residents, particularly on their concerns about Venezuela’s aggressions.
Just as he landed in Mabaruma, the Commander in Chief was immediately engaged by dozens of residents at the airstrip. Many of them asked questions about Venezuela’s December 3 referendum and what that meant for their safety and security.
The Head of State sought to reassure them that the government was engaging all of its bilateral partners, international organizations and the World Court.
These are all in an effort to maintain diplomatic support for Guyana in its border controversy with Venezuela. And according to him, there is solid, widespread support for Guyana.
Venezuela is claiming two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, which is the entire Essequibo region, even though the boundary between the two countries was settled more than 100 years ago.
But in light of continued aggression from Venezuela, including its planned December 3 referendum, which some fear can trigger a potential annexation of the Essequibo region, some residents asked about beefing up monitoring and security efforts.
In response, the Commander in Chief said, “What is required, the Guyana Defence Force is doing. We’re not taking anything for granted.”
He noted that efforts are being made to boost the GDF’s capacity, particularly in border areas.
Even as he said the government is doing all it can, the President said Guyanese too have a role to play.
That means, not falling prey to hysteria and remaining in their communities instead of fleeing. The President said there is nothing warranting any relocation at this time.
“As I said, we’re not taking this for granted but all of us have a role and all I am saying to you is listen to the news from a reliable source, the government and the GDF,” President Ali told the residents.
