In light of the recent U.S. military strikes on Venezuela, the Alliance for Change and Patriotic National Unity (APNU) has called on the Government of Guyana to strategically activate contingency plans to prepare for the potential humanitarian and security crisis along the western border.
The APNU emphasizes that while the country’s position regarding the ongoing territorial controversy remains aligned with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) process and international law, the changing situation necessitates a pragmatic and comprehensive national response. This includes anticipating an immediate movement of displaced persons seeking refuge.
To address these challenges, the APNU is urging the administration to take the following actions:
Formalize a Humanitarian Task Force: Establish an inclusive joint task force comprising the Civil Defence Commission, the Guyana Defence Force, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Human Services, and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate a comprehensive national response.
Designate and Prepare Reception Areas: Identify and equip potential reception zones, situated safely away from the border, with pre-positioned supplies including water, food, medicine, and shelter materials. A vetting mechanism should be implemented to minimize risks to national security.
Enhance Border Monitoring & Security Protocols: Maintain a posture of humanitarian assistance while clearly defining and reinforcing security protocols to manage any influx of individuals in an orderly and documented manner that safeguards national interest.
Engage Regional & International Partners Proactively: Formally notify CARICOM, the UNHCR, and the Red Cross to seek logistical and financial support, ensuring that Guyana does not bear an unequal burden from the potential influx of Venezuelans.
The APNU underscores the importance of inclusive decision-making and stakeholder involvement to foster national unity in light of a potential emergency. They advocate for an approach that transcends partisan politics.
The party expresses its commitment to cooperate in developing legislative measures, mobilizing community-based support networks, and providing bipartisan political support for resource allocations critical to protecting vulnerable populations and maintaining national stability.
The APNU calls for swift, transparent, and decisive action, viewing these measures as essential for promoting responsible sovereignty and humanitarian foresight.
