‘Be vigilant, give us information’ – GDF chief tells Toshaos ahead of Venezuela’s condemned elections 

Chief of Defence Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Omar Khan, called on Guyanese Indigenous communities, particularly those along the border with Venezuela, to share all relevant information with the army relating to the Spanish-speaking nation’s attempts to organise a widely-condemned election.

“I want you to be vigilant. People are taking videos of what’s happening on the other side. We want to know when to turn left and when to turn right, and we need your support,” Brigadier Khan told the over 200 Indigenous leaders who were at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Tuesday for the annual National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference.

Brigadier Khan also used the opportunity to remind the leaders that Guyana’s borders are clearly defined and internationally recognised.

The Spanish-speaking nation forges ahead with elections for the Essequibo region, internationally recognised as Guyana’s. The move has been widely condemned.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) unanimously reaffirmed provisional measures granted in December 2023 and told Venezuela that it shall refrain from conducting, or preparing to conduct, elections in the Essequibo region.

Meanwhile, the army chief also called for national unity as Guyana celebrates its Independence on May 26.

“In a few days’ time, we will be celebrating our 59th anniversary of independence. It’s important for us to understand what sovereignty means and to love and protect our country,” Brigadier Khan said.

Youth were also encouraged to join the Guyana Defence Force, and Khan praised those who have already taken that bold step.

Addressing criticisms about the size of the country’s army, Brigadier Khan said, “People say we have a small defence force, but I’ll tell you, I’d rather count hearts than heads.”