The Alliance for Change (AFC) in a strongly worded statement warns that Venezuela continues to refine its hybrid warfare strategy against Guyana, a threat that cannot be ignored. Venezuela is methodically positioning itself for the potential seizure and occupation of Guyana’s territory—an approach referred to in military terms as a “fait accompli,” the party said.
Also pointed out is that these actions, taking place just below the threshold of outright conflict, include building bridges, fortifying Ankoko, launching cyber-attacks, and appointing governors. While these are the visible indicators, much more is occurring beneath the surface, AFC shared.
Despite these growing threats, the Government of Guyana, led by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), seems to be turning a blind eye. The party notes that while Guyana’s security is increasingly compromised, the PPP is failing to act with the urgency required.
Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro announced on January 7, 2025, that “the people of Guayana Esequiba” would elect a “Governor of the Guayana Esequiba.” The newest threat followed the continued aggression preceded in December 2023 by a national vote to annex Essequibo from Guyana.
Civil society has consistently called for more vigilance on the border controversy between the two countries, yet the government has ignored these calls. Critics have argued that there is an urgent need for a comprehensive national plan to address this evolving threat, one that involves not just the government but also the opposition, civil society, and the wider population.
The AFC is calling on the government to immediately engage in a whole-of-nation approach that includes all sectors of society and the active participation of all elected representatives.
According to the party, if the PPP believes it can confront Venezuela’s serious and calculated threat alone, it will be severely mistaken. Should the PPP take such a stand the AFC warned that “cat will eat our dinner”.
At the same time the AFC makes known that the opposition stands ready and willing to work in a bi-partisan manner to defend Guyana’s sovereignty, but the PPP must stop sidelining the contributions of the opposition and civil society in this critical matter.
To this end the party has demanded the immediate convening of the Foreign Relations Committee and the re-establishment of the Border/National Security Committee to ensure that all hands are on deck.
Many have argued that it is imperative Guyana presents a united front to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity, the PPP government should stop twiddling its thumbs and take decisive action now.