By Pt. Ubraj Narine- As both the Government and Opposition prepare to debate the motion titled “Support for the Government and People of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana Reaffirming the Sovereignty of Guyana Over Its Internationally Recognised Territory,” carried by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the nation stands at a defining moment. How our leaders respond now will echo through history—not only in diplomatic halls but in the hearts of every Guyanese citizen who calls this land home.
This is not the time for petty and vindictive politics or personal point-scoring. The integrity of our borders, the safety of our people—especially those in vulnerable and remote communities—and the strength of our democracy are on the line. The Venezuelan claim over the Essequibo region is a serious challenge that demands unity, transparency, and resolve.
While support for the motion is a matter of national duty, it must be met with equal calls for accountability. The opposition must not shy away from asking the hard but necessary questions. We, the people, deserve answers. Among them:
- The government must commit to frequent and detailed reports on diplomatic, legal, and military developments surrounding the border controversy. Keeping the nation informed builds trust and national readiness.
- What concrete plans exist to protect our Indigenous communities and prepare communities in the Essequibo region? These citizens are on the frontlines of this territorial dispute and deserve comprehensive security, development, and logistical support.
- Instead of hosting concerts and publicity events, such as the President’s appearance in Essequibo to dance again, the Government should initiate genuine national consultations with Political parties, trade unions, religious bodies, civil society, and NGOs must be brought into the fold—not for spectacle, but for meaningful dialogue, education, and mobilisation.
- If the government truly values bipartisan unity, it should establish a national advisory committee on the border issue, including representatives from the opposition. Sovereignty is not a partisan matter—it is a Guyanese matter.
- Following the US Ambassador’s statement of support, what steps has the government taken to engage with US counterparts? Are there formal agreements, consultations, or cooperative initiatives in motion? The public deserves clarity on the depth and terms of such support.
- We must also understand the scale of Venezuelan migration into Guyana. How many Venezuelan citizens, by region, currently reside in our country? Transparency on this issue is critical to national security, planning, and public confidence.
If the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government is truly committed to defending Guyana’s sovereignty, then it must step forward with honesty, openness, and a willingness to include all voices in this fight. Unity can not be mere rhetoric. It must be reflected in action, policy, and participation.
Tomorrow’s debate is not just about affirming a motion—it is about affirming who we are as a nation. History will judge us by where we stood, what we demanded, and how courageously we defended the land we call our own.
Let that judgment find us on the side of truth, unity, and patriotism.
Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Mayor
City of Georgetown
