Dear Editor,
SN’s headline (11.17.07) titled, “Venezuela invades Guyana’s territory – military blows up two dredges” struck with all the sound and force of those explosions. But there was no flinching. Because the thought has always been present as to when and how something like this would occur. The follow-up thoughts are: how often is this going to happen, and who takes an interest.
Let us not harbour any illusions: this incursion/invasion/aggression–call it what you will–was both raw and naked. I believe that it was neither accidental nor unauthorized.
This is said in the firm belief that our swaggering, macho neighbour is no friend of Guyana; that he has far reaching ambitions; and that troubling territorial visions lurk in his head. Amidst the glow of an arbitration award, and optimism of potential oil wealth, this calculating–not necessarily balanced–caudillo needed to make a statement, a timely one, a forceful one, and that he did. He also knows that he can do it again around his cardinal point(s). However, if he is not careful, he may unwittingly provide both rationale and opportunity for some interested parties.
In the meantime, there will be the obligatory swirl of diplomatic notes, lectures, and postures. All the while, this champion of the underclass will continue to plot on extending his barrio at our expense. He will not be dissuaded. As we wait for developments, we can now identify with Mexico and its age-old lament: so near to the devil and so far from God.
Yours faithfully,
GHK Lall
