By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
In a major development that reinforces Guyana’s sovereignty and international legal standing, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Thursday issued a binding order instructing Venezuela to immediately cease all plans to hold elections in the disputed Essequibo region—a territory long administered by Guyana but claimed by Caracas.
The unanimous ruling revises the provisional measures granted in December 2023, and serves as a sharp rebuke to Venezuela’s latest efforts to extend political control into the resource-rich area. The ICJ explicitly barred Venezuela from “conducting or preparing to conduct elections” in Essequibo while the substantive border case remains before the court.
The decision comes after Venezuela published official notices naming candidates and set May 25, 2025, as the date for regional elections in the area—an act Guyana deemed a direct violation of international law and the court’s orders.
“Pending a final decision in the case, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall refrain from conducting elections or preparing to conduct elections in a territory in dispute with the Cooperative Republic of Guyana,” the court stated.
At the heart of the case is the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between the two countries. Venezuela disputes its validity, while Guyana insists that the ruling remains legally binding and internationally recognized.
In response to the ICJ’s reaffirmed ruling, President Irfaan Ali expressed satisfaction, stating:
“Once again, Guyana’s position has prevailed. Once again, it has been demonstrated that Guyana’s stance accords with international law.”
The ruling is being hailed as a significant diplomatic victory for Guyana and a clear signal to the global community that the integrity of international law must be respected.
