CARICOM has strongly opposed Venezuela’s plan to hold elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region. The regional body, in a statement following its 48th Regular Meeting, warned that such actions violate international law and past agreements.
On January 27, 2025, Venezuela’s President and National Electoral Council announced plans to elect a “Governor” and “Legislative Council” for the so-called “Guayana Esequiba State” on April 27, 2025.
CARICOM said that this move disregards the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) December 2023 order and the 2023 Argyle Declaration between both nations.
The bloc also condemned a February 17, 2025, attack by armed Venezuelan men on Guyana Defence Force (GDF) soldiers near the border.
According to information released by the armed forces, the injured soldiers have been identified as Second Lieutenant Ansel Murray, who sustained a gunshot wound to the right side of his head; Sergeant Kevon Davis, who was shot in the right foot and ankle; Corporal Andre Fraser, who suffered gunshot wounds to the left side of his abdomen and shoulder; Corporal Kevin Henry, who was shot in the left arm and shoulder; Lance Corporal Travis Yorrick, who sustained a gunshot wound to the right thigh; and Private Ezron Samuel, who was shot in the right side of his abdomen.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in a statement explained that the resupply vessel with the ranks traveling from Eteringbang to Makapa came under fire from a group of armed men. The patrol swiftly retaliated, engaging the attackers with return fire. Further reports state that the suspects in the shooting have been arrested by the Venezuelan military. One suspect is reportedly dead.
The regional leaders welcomed Venezuela’s April 8, 2024, counter-memorial in the ICJ case on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award. They urged Venezuela to submit its final response by August 8, 2025, as scheduled.
CARICOM reaffirmed full support for Guyana’s sovereignty and stressed that the ICJ remains the only legitimate path for resolving the dispute.
