President Ali Stands Firm as Venezuela Moves to Hold Illegal Election in Essequibo
By Travis Chase | HGP Nightly News
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – As Venezuela forges ahead with its controversial plan to hold regional elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region, President Irfaan Ali is reaffirming his government’s unwavering stance: Guyana will not cede an inch of its territory.
“We are respectful of international order and the international rule of law… not a square inch will be ceded, now or ever,” President Ali declared.
The head of state made the remarks on the sidelines of a judicial appointment ceremony, just days ahead of Venezuela’s May 25 election, which includes attempts to install a governor and eight parliamentary deputies in Guyana’s sovereign Essequibo region.
Despite a clear ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on May 1, 2025, ordering Venezuela to halt its electoral plans in Essequibo, President Nicolás Maduro’s regime has rejected the order and intends to move forward with the election.
President Ali urged all Guyanese—particularly those living in border communities—to remain patriotic and vigilant, emphasizing the need to continue flying the Golden Arrowhead with pride.
“We are 83,000 square miles proud and strong. Unshakable. Unbreakable. And that is how it’s going to be,” Ali said.
The President noted that diplomacy and defense remain the two key pillars of Guyana’s strategy in defending its territorial integrity:
- Diplomatic efforts with regional and international partners continue to be prioritized.
- Guyana is strengthening its defense capabilities, ensuring the GDF is equipped to protect its borders.
The border controversy, rooted in Venezuela’s rejection of the 1899 Arbitral Award, has been before the ICJ since 2018, when Guyana petitioned the world court to uphold the award as valid and legally binding. Venezuela, however, claims the 1966 Geneva Agreement rendered the award null, a position Guyana firmly disputes.
President Ali reiterated that his government is committed to upholding international law, while defending Guyana’s sovereignty with unity and resolve.
