Despite ongoing criticism from the opposition in Caracas and increasing international pressure against interference in Guyana’s sovereignty, the Nicolas Maduro Administration proceeded with parliamentary and local elections on Sunday, allegedly including a position for a Governor of Guyana’s Essequibo region.
However, these elections were not conducted within Guyana’s borders. Investigative reports from journalists in the Barima-Waini region confirmed that no electoral activities or campaigning took place in nearby communities leading up to the event.
Maria Rivero, a 26-year-old Venezuelan national residing in Matthews Ridge, expressed her strong belief that “Essequibo is Guyana’s” despite being taught otherwise in Venezuela. Ridge, who has lived in Guyana for nearly a decade, voiced her fears about Maduro’s potential threat to the country, saying, “I don’t want President Maduro to come here and destroy this country.” Rivero fled Venezuela due to its severe humanitarian crisis and is now raising her child in Guyana.
In contrast, Greggory Vincent, a local businessman, reiterated pride in his Guyanese heritage and confirmed that residents of Matthews Ridge are steadfast in defending their territory against Venezuelan claims. He stated, “We are proud Guyanese and we will not give up Essequibo for anything.” Similarly, in the Arakaka community, Chairman John Phillips confirmed that local life continued peacefully without any sign of election activities or disturbances, emphasizing the harmony shared with the few Venezuelan migrants residing there.
Source: newssourcegy.com
