Voters in Venezuela rejected the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) jurisdiction and backed the creation of a new state in the potentially oil-rich Essequibo region in a referendum on December 3.
The ICJ this week banned Venezuela from taking any action that could change the status quo in the region, but President Nicolas Maduro’s government held a five-question “consultative” referendum. Some analysts believe his office is checking popular support ahead of the planned 2024 presidential election.
According to the electoral body’s president, Elvis Amoroso, all questions were approved by more than 95%, who reported that at least 10.5 million votes were cast in favour, but he did not confirm the number of voters. Maduro hailed the “total success” of the vote late Sunday night.
“The Venezuelan people have spoken loudly and clearly.”
Venezuelans voted to create a 160,000 square kilometre (61,776 square mile) region covered by dense jungle. The maritime border between the two countries is also disputed.
Venezuela renewed its claim to the territory after discovering offshore oil and gas deposits. Ricardo Sucre, a professor of politics at Venezuela’s Central University, claimed that the president was considering potential oil and gas developments.
The purpose of [Maduro’s] government is to send a message of strength to Guyana.
The country has more than 20 million eligible voters, but witnesses noted low turnout at polling stations across the nation.
“If the opposition joins together and there is a willingness to participate [in the 2024 election] by Venezuelans, Maduro is out. He is activating a scenario of conflict to perhaps suspend the election.”
Sunday’s vote sparked anxiety in Guyana. President Irfaan Ali took part in a patriotic rally on Sunday, joining hundreds of supporters. He argued that Friday’s International Court of Justice ruling barred Venezuela from “annexing or trespassing upon Guyanese territory.”
Brazil declared on Wednesday that it had stepped up “defensive actions” along its northern border amid the territorial dispute.
