Border Controversy: Govt assures safety, protection of frontline Indigenous communities

In the wake of the ongoing border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela, Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall is reassuring Amerindian communities that the Government is firmly committed to their safety and protection.
Speaking at the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, Nandlall assured the Amerindian population that the Government remains vigilant and resolute in safeguarding both their lives and Guyana’s territorial sovereignty.
“The territorial threat that we are facing as a country—I will not go through the long details—except to assure you that your Government is doing everything possible to ensure that you are protected. Many of your communities are located in what is now being described as a disputed territory. We know that it is not disputed, but the international jargon now refers to it as such,” Nandlall stated.
He emphasised that Guyana’s sovereignty is being actively safeguarded and monitored, noting that both national and international bodies are paying close attention.
“At the level of the United Nations (UN), we are present, and we have secured their support. At the level of the UN Security Council, we have a presence there now, and we are guaranteed support. Across the international community—in North America, South America, the Caribbean, Latin America, and across the globe—we have the backing of the international community and international law. That is the first assurance I want to give regarding this territorial challenge,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Nandlall reminded attendees of the Government’s continued vigilance in upholding territorial integrity and the constitutional rights of the Amerindian population.
“The other issue I want to address is to assure you that, as our First People, you hold a special place in our Government. Many of you would have heard that our Constitution provides a scheme of rights called fundamental freedoms, which are guaranteed to all the people of our country—freedom to justice, protection against discrimination, and more. These apply to all citizens, but in relation to protective mechanisms against discrimination, you hold a particularly special place,” the Minister said.
He further highlighted that Amerindians are central to the Government’s developmental agenda, and emphasised their constitutional rights, including freedom of speech, freedom of movement, the right to own property, and the right to justice.
Meanwhile, Guyana’s Defence Chief has issued a stern warning that any residents who participate in upcoming elections organised by neighbouring Venezuela over the disputed Essequibo region will face charges of treason and other serious criminal offences.
The elections, scheduled for May 25 and spearheaded by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, are part of an ongoing effort to assert Venezuela’s claim over the resource-rich Essequibo territory—an area long recognised internationally as part of Guyana.