We must be cautious!

Sep 22, 2023 Letters

Dear Editor,

Given the recent threats by Venezuela, we must as a country be more vigilant and take extra precaution in who we allow to migrate into our country. In the not-too-distant past, Venezuela showed that they have a people’s militia that is 1-million people strong. If we are not cautious, members of their militia can easily pose as asylum seekers and occupy Essequibo.

It is in our Nation’s best interest to have an established temporary refugee camp on the border with Venezuela so as to easily send the refugees back to their homeland when the situation in Venezuela improves.

By taking this approach, we will continue to aid those suffering in Venezuela that are seeking our assistance, while also safeguarding our territorial integrity from the dangers of an infiltration by the Venezuela Militia.

We must be cautious!

The value of our territory increases with each oil find and an impoverished neighbour will be tempted to take what doesn’t belong to them, especially when we consider the history of the dispute and the current map within Venezuela. Their map shows Essequibo as a part of their country and they have been teaching this to their children and citizens for decades. The Venezuelans will feel justified in taking our land from us by hook or by crook.

With the current situation in mind, it is best to require English as a first language in our schools and amongst our citizens. Once it has been established, the use of Spanish in schools, on police vehicles and for other government services must be restricted to the temporary refugee camp. Containment is important at this stage of the conflict.

Best regards,

Mr. Jamil Changlee

Chairman

The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana

• assistance, cautious, Chairman, Essequibo, Mr. Jamil Changlee