President Dr Irfaan Ali delivered a firm and defiant message on Wednesday, just days before Venezuela’s planned elections over Guyana’s Essequibo region, declaring that not a single inch of Guyanese territory will be surrendered, now or ever.
His statement comes amid heightened tensions following a border attack on Guyanese troops and growing international concern over Venezuela’s actions in defiance of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Speaking on the sidelines of a public event on Wednesday, President Ali reaffirmed his government’s unyielding stance on national sovereignty, stating Guyana is “unshakable, unbreakable” in its defence of the Essequibo region. This declaration comes as Venezuela prepares to stage what Guyana and much of the international community have condemned as a sham election.
“We are 83,000 square miles broad and strong — unshakable, unbreakable — and that is how it’s going to be,” President Ali said.
“We are respectful of international order, international rule of law… not a square inch would be ceded, now or ever.”
The President outlined a three-pronged approach to national defence in the face of Venezuela’s growing provocations: steadfast diplomacy, bolstered defence capabilities, and strategic international engagement.
“We have always pursued diplomacy with our neighbours, regional leaders, and the international community,” he noted. “At the same time, we are strengthening our defence systems to ensure our capability in protecting our sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Ali also reiterated the importance of collaboration with global allies, pointing to the role of intelligence and quiet diplomacy. “A lot of this work happens behind the scenes — gathering intelligence, sharing messaging with our diplomatic colleagues,” he said. “The US is a very important partner in this, particularly on matters of security.”
The President stopped short of confirming whether Guyana would expel Venezuela’s ambassador or recall its own envoy from Caracas, noting only that diplomatic channels remain open, and consultations are ongoing.
His remarks follow a recent incident involving Guyanese soldiers at the border, attacked by individuals in civilian clothing. Investigations are underway, and the US ambassador to Guyana has publicly expressed Washington’s willingness to support Guyana’s efforts to maintain peace and stability.
The crisis has escalated in the lead-up to Venezuela’s declared intention to hold regional elections in the Essequibo — a move the ICJ has explicitly barred. Last Thursday, the Court reaffirmed that “pending a final decision in the case, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall refrain from conducting elections, or preparing to conduct elections, in the territory in dispute.”
Essequibo, administered by Guyana for more than a century under the 1899 Arbitral Award, remains at the heart of the decades-long territorial controversy. Venezuela’s ongoing attempts to assert control over the region are widely seen as a violation of international law and a direct challenge to the ICJ’s authority.
President Ali urged Guyanese citizens to stand firm in unity and national pride.
“Let us all be proud of our heritage. Fly our golden arrowhead high,” he said. “Our position is clear, and it is final — not a square inch will be ceded, now or ever.”
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