UDP condemns Guatemalan gun ships in Belizean waters

Published by [email protected] at September 8, 2024

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Posted: Sunday, September 8, 2024. 4:47 pm CST.

By Horace Palacio: The United Democratic Party (UDP) has condemned Guatemala’s aggressive military actions, following the unauthorized entry of Guatemalan gun ships into Belizean waters on September 7. The Opposition characterized the incident as a “blatant act of intimidation” and an egregious violation of Belize’s territorial boundaries.

This latest incursion comes on the heels of a diplomatic Protest Note issued by Belize last week, in response to an incident where Guatemalan Armed Forces (GAF) rammed a civilian vessel in the Sarstoon. The UDP stressed that these recurring violations indicate Guatemala’s blatant disregard for Belize’s sovereignty under the Briceño administration.

The UDP pointed out the disturbing timing of this invasion, occurring on the same day that BDF troops were deployed as part of a regional effort to address the crisis in Haiti. According to the Opposition, this highlights the need for Belize to refocus its attention on safeguarding its southern border from Guatemalan incursions.

In its press release, the UDP called on the Briceño government to file an immediate protest with the Organization of American States (OAS) and other international bodies, condemning Guatemala’s provocations. They further emphasized that Guatemala’s actions violate established international protocols, including agreements that prohibit the use of force in the Sarstoon River—a highly sensitive area central to the territorial dispute between the two nations.

The UDP also urged the administration to push for a formal Sarstoon Protocol, which would establish clear guidelines to prevent hostile encounters in the region. While waiting for such agreements, the UDP advised the government to consider all options, including recalling the Belizean Ambassador to Guatemala and limiting cross-border commerce with Melchor de Mencos as a show of protest.

With Belize’s September celebrations underway, marking the 226th anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye, the UDP reminded Belizeans of the country’s long-standing commitment to defending its sovereignty. “As we face modern challenges, we must remain steadfast in safeguarding our borders, just as our forefathers did centuries ago.”

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