CARACAS, Venezuela — On Friday, the Venezuelan government expressed its disapproval of a decision made by the United Nations’ International Court, which ordered it to postpone elections intended for officials to govern an area in Guyana that both countries claim.
President Nicolás Maduro’s administration issued a statement emphasizing its historical stance of not recognizing the International Court of Justice’s authority. They contend that international law does not permit the court to either “interfere” or “attempt to prevent” an electoral process.
This declaration followed a ruling from The Hague on Thursday, which came at the behest of Guyana. Guyana accused Venezuela of defying a previous order by scheduling elections on May 25 for a governor and other officials to manage the Essequibo region.
In their official message, Venezuela described the Essequibo as an “inalienable part” of its territory, steeped in patriotic legacy. They articulated that its defense is a matter ingrained historically, constitutionally, and morally, uniting the “Bolivarian Homeland.” They further stated that no degree of international pressure, legal intimidation, or external judicial body would deter their steadfast conviction.
The contested territory in question occupies two-thirds of Guyana, known for its abundance of gold, diamonds, and lumber, alongside substantial offshore oil reserves currently producing about 650,000 barrels a day.
Venezuela’s claim over Essequibo dates back to the colonial era when it was under Spanish rule. The country has consistently disregarded the 1899 border, drawn while Guyana was a British colony, as illegitimate.
This border conflict led Guyana to seek a legal resolution in 2018, petitioning the court to affirm the 1899 border as valid and binding. Venezuela, however, argues that a 1966 agreement effectively annulled the initial arbitration. The legal proceedings in this matter are still ongoing, with the tension between the two countries remaining high.
In late 2023, President Maduro suggested the potential annexation of the region post a referendum that gauged public opinion on making Essequibo a Venezuelan state. This statement prompted an emergency summit with Caribbean countries, Brazil, and the United Nations, wherein an agreement was reached to steer clear of using force, although the issue endures.
Earlier this year, Guyana’s president accused Venezuela of deploying an armed naval vessel into contested waters, home to an ExxonMobil-operated offshore oil site. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez denied these allegations, labeling ExxonMobil’s operations as “illegal.”
As political activities within the nation continue, Venezuelan citizens are scheduled to vote for governors and legislative members later this month.