Nascimento warns Venezuela must never be taken for granted

Communications specialist and political commentator Kit Nascimento says Guyana must take nothing for granted and remain alert and prepared to defend the resource-rich Essequibo, which he described as the country’s most immediate strategic challenge.

Speaking on Monday during a panel discussion marking Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary, Nascimento said Venezuela has maintained its position that it does not submit to the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice in the border controversy.

He referred to recent oral hearings in the Essequibo case, during which legal representatives of Venezuela and Acting President Delcy Rodríguez rejected the court’s authority to hear the matter.

“A ruling of the International Court of Justice in our favour will not automatically avoid that threat,” he said.

Nascimento urged continued vigilance, saying Guyana must protect its future and remain prepared for any developments affecting its western border.

“I conclude by saying to all of us, we must always prepare ourselves to meet and overcome that challenge,” he added.

The ICJ is expected to issue its decision in the Essequibo case in January 2027. The ruling will be final and binding. Guyana has expressed confidence in a favourable outcome.