Pres. Ali declares “every inch of Essequibo belongs to Guyana” as Guyanese unite at Patriotic Concert
The town of Anna Regina came alive on Saturday evening with patriotism, pride, and unity as the National Patriotic Concert organised by the government drew thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life to denounce Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s oil-rich Essequibo region.
Standing before the crowd was the Commander-in-Chief and President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali.
With power in his voice and conviction in his heart, he declared, “Every inch of Essequibo belongs to Guyana.” The crowd erupted in cheers, as the Golden Arrowhead flew high.
The Head of State reminded the crowd that Guyana’s territory comprises 83,000 square miles and Essequibo is, and will always be, part of the land.
No foreign claim, no unlawful referendum, no bridge built in defiance of sovereignty would ever shake the resolve of the Guyanese people, he noted.
“We stand here not with weapons,” the President said, “but with unity, with dance, music, culture, and the strength of a peaceful nation. This is our weapon – our patriotism, our decency, and our unbreakable will.”
He condemned Venezuela’s illegal actions, including the 2024 bridge construction near Guyana’s borders and the unlawful referendum.
President Ali noted that Guyana had taken the rightful legal path, seeking justice at the International Court of Justice (ICJ)—the proper and peaceful venue to resolve such controversies.
“Every law-abiding nation stands with Guyana,” he said firmly. “The 1899 Arbitral Award is final, and the Essequibo region remains under the sovereignty of Guyana.”
Despite provocations, President Ali affirmed Guyana’s commitment to peace. He noted that regional leaders had agreed to refrain from threats and acts of aggression. Still, he warned of Venezuela’s reckless conduct, emphasising that the country’s sovereignty must be respected.
“You may name it what you want,” he declared. “But Essequibo is, and will forever remain, part of Guyana. We shall not bend. We are stronger than ever. We will bring those who break international law to justice—on their side of the border.”
The Guyanese Leader added that Guyana’s position is supported by organisations such as CARICOM, the Commonwealth, the OAS, and the UN Security Council, which have condemned Venezuela’s breaches of international law.
The President noted that Venezuela has increased military presence and aggression near the border, including unauthorized overflights and attacks on Guyanese patrols, actions he said have been formally protested.
He appealed directly to the Venezuelan people for peace, democracy, and mutual respect.
President Ali concluded with a strong emotional appeal to Guyanese citizens to stand together as “One Guyana” in defense of their homeland and sovereignty, invoking divine protection and unity.
In attendance at the patriotic concert were members of the diplomatic corps and Cabinet Ministers. Performances included Indigenous Dance by Riverside Angels, Spoken Word by Daniella Araujo, “Song of the Republic” by Edon Singh, and the National Song. Other featured acts were Vanita Willie, Tony Cutz & Vicadi Singh, AW Lyrical, and Brandon Hardin.
