In a historic referendum held on Sunday, Venezuelan voters, reportedly, “overwhelmingly” rejected the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling over the country’s long-standing territorial dispute with Guyana.
Venezuala’s Government claims that the referendum also saw voters backing the creation of a new state in the potential oil-rich Essequibo region.
This move comes after the ICJ’s order last Friday, which directed Venezuela to “refrain from taking any action which would modify that situation that currently prevails,” in reference to the disputed Essequibo territory, a region under Guyanese control.
Venezuela has claimed the Essequibo region since its independence from Spain in 1811 and has not recognized the border established by international arbitrators in 1899.
Despite the ICJ’s order, President Nicolas Maduro’s government proceeded with the five-question “consultative” referendum.
According to reports Electoral Authority president Elvis Amoroso claimed that all questions passed with more than 95% approval, with at least 10.5 million ‘yes’ votes cast. However, the total number of voters was not confirmed.
Political and security analysts have alleged that the referendum could have been a demonstration of Maduro’s strength and a gauge of support for his government ahead of the anticipated 2024 presidential election.
President Maduro celebrated the “total success” of the vote, addressing a jubilant crowd, “The Venezuelan people have spoken loudly and clearly.”
In response, Guyana held a rally on Sunday, where President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali joined residents in patriotic displays of music, art, and dance. President Ali addressed the crowd emphasizing that the nation will not be “trampled upon” by Venezuela’s annexation attempts of the Essequibo region.
Amid rising tensions, President Ali called for empathy and love between the neighbouring people and called on the people of Guyana and Venezuela to realize their common role and impact on each other’s development and advancement.
The outcome of the referendum marks a significant moment in the history of both nations and undoubtedly sets the stage for further developments in this geopolitical saga.