Anil Nandlall SC MP, Guyana’s Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, took the podium earlier today at the Inter-Parliamentary Union General Assembly in Luanda, Angola. He called upon the assembly to denounce the actions of the Republic of Venezuela and insist that Venezuela respect the International Court of Justice (ICJ) legal process.
Nandlall emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Time is of the essence.” The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is one of the world’s oldest and largest associations of Parliaments, representing 180 Parliaments worldwide. During the 147th meeting of the Assembly, which has convened in Luanda, Angola, the Bahamas was accepted as the 180th member of the Union.
The assembly is focused on the theme “Parliamentary Action for Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions” in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16 of the United Nations.
In his address, Minister Nandlall connected the conference’s theme to Guyana’s ongoing border dispute with Venezuela. He highlighted the pressing issue in his speech, drawing attention to Venezuela’s intention to hold a referendum on December 3, 2023, seeking to annex over two-thirds of Guyana’s sovereign territory.
This move, he stressed, is both reckless and illegal, as it challenges a dispute that was settled by arbitration in 1899. Venezuela’s actions persist despite the matter being under the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice, following the direction of the UN Secretary-General.
Nandlall pointed out that such actions undermine public institutions, incite conflicts, and violate the core principles of the conference. In response to this situation, he urged the Inter-Parliamentary Union to condemn Venezuela’s actions and insist on Venezuela’s adherence to the legal process of the International Court of Justice, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
Delegates from various countries have expressed their support and solidarity with Guyana regarding its border dispute with Venezuela. Efforts are underway to formalize these expressions of support.
Attorney General Nandlall is part of Guyana’s parliamentary delegation participating in the 147th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Angola this week.
