The APNU+AFC hosted a public meeting at Stabroek Market Square on Monday to address the ongoing Guyana/Venezuela territorial controversy.
Opposition legislators addressed the gathering, emphasizing that Venezuela is the aggressor in the matter but expressing confidence that Guyana will succeed.
Undeveloped and sparsely populated, Essequibo is resource-rich, making it the target of Venezuela’s longstanding claim.
Opposition MP Khemraj Ramjattan highlighted that Venezuela’s threats have hindered the full development of the Essequibo region, leading to the suspension of many projects.
Ramjattan stressed that there is no doubt Venezuela has denied Guyana the opportunity to fully tap into the potential of the Essequibo region.
Opposition MP Amanza Walton-Desir delved into the historical facts behind the border controversy, calling for unity among Guyanese to stand against Venezuela’s unwarranted threats.
Both Opposition MPs, who are lawyers, expressed confidence in Guyana securing a favorable decision in the case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The ICJ is set to rule on Guyana’s request for provisional measures in relation to Venezuela’s referendum on Essequibo scheduled for December 3.
The public meeting aimed to address concerns and mobilize support as the nation awaits the ICJ’s decision.