“Shameful” – PM condemns Opposition’s “unpatriotic” walkout, refusal to support sovereignty motion

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday issued a blistering rebuke of the Opposition’s refusal to support a landmark motion reaffirming Guyana’s sovereignty over the Essequibo region, calling their walkout from the National Assembly “shameful” and “unpatriotic.”
The motion, tabled by Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd, sought to reaffirm Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and support for the ongoing case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), while condemning Venezuela’s planned “elections” in the Essequibo and its defiance of binding ICJ orders.
However, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton and members of the APNU+AFC coalition walked out of the debate, refusing to support the motion, which they claimed lacked enforceability.

Reacting strongly, the Prime Minister said, “A house divided cannot stand,” warning that such division at a time of national significance only weakens the country’s position. “The only people who seem to have a difference and are unpatriotic are the leader of the Opposition and perhaps those who are following him. And they will be left behind,” Phillips said.
He noted that Guyanese from all walks of life, especially children in schools, have shown far more patriotism and national pride than those elected to represent them. “Our children know better than those who are paid to keep the government on its toes,” Phillips added, pointing out that the people of Guyana, at home and abroad, remain united on the issue.
Additionally, the Prime Minister accused Norton of attempting to rewrite history by invoking the Geneva Agreement signed under Forbes Burnham, without acknowledging that it was done without consultation. He reminded the House that Guyana was only returned to democracy in 1992 after 28 years of undemocratic Peoples National Congress (PNC) rule. “Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it,” Phillips stated.
Highlighting the collaborative approach taken by the government, Phillips explained that a draft of the motion had been shared with the Opposition’s Chief Whip to allow input, amendments, and support—but no such collaboration came. “In the House today, the Leader of the Opposition said he didn’t see the draft motion—yet, a full diatribe was posted on social media,” he said, calling it a clear attempt at political showmanship.
The Prime Minister also used the opportunity to underscore the strength of Guyana’s defence capabilities, especially the revitalization of the Guyana National Reserve. “Every citizen is allowed to be a soldier… and the National Reserve is as strong as it has ever been,” he asserted.
He further pointed out that the public relations campaign around the border controversy has raised awareness like never before. “Today in Guyana, every Guyanese is better informed about the Guyana-Venezuela controversy than ever before. Perhaps even more so than the Opposition,” he jabbed.
The Opposition’s refusal to participate in upcoming national events, including Flag Day and the 59th Independence Anniversary celebrations, was also criticized. “They were asked to get on board and refused,” Phillips said. “This is the same Opposition that attempted to cling to power in 2020, even after a recount and international verification. They live in an alternate universe.”
Calling the motion a reaffirmation of the will of the Guyanese people, Phillips declared, “When our sovereignty was challenged, our unity stood firm. Let the world see Guyana united—despite those who try to divide us.”