Anthony Henry

The People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on the Government of Jamaica to unequivocally defend long-standing principles of international law following recent developments in Venezuela.

The Opposition party said in a statement that the moment also requires the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to reassert its commitment to the restoration of the region as a Zone of Peace, noting that these principles have formed the foundation of regional cooperation for decades.

The United States, on Saturday, January 3, launched an operation in the South American nation of Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

The two were flown to the US, where they are expected to be tried on drug-related charges. The pair appeared in a New York court on Monday, where they pleaded not guilty.

Their arrests drew sharp criticism from some global leaders who condemned the US’ action even as Venezuelans at home and abroad celebrated the move.

Detractors were further infuriated by comments from US President Donald Trump that his nation would run Venezuela and that it would take control of the production of oil in the oil-rich nation.   

The US and some European nations did not recognise Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate president based on claims that he stole his country’s election.

In response to the arrests, the PNP said it remains committed to a rules-based international system grounded in the Charter of the United Nations, in which the use of force is strictly limited by international law.

It further reaffirmed the right of nations to self-determination and control over their natural resources, while encouraging adherence to democratic norms and the protection of human rights.

The party warned that the use of force to effect regime change or advance political or economic interests in the Caribbean threatens regional peace and security, and risks wider global instability.

According to the PNP, smaller states must rely on international law and collective solidarity to safeguard their sovereignty, independence and legitimate interests.

The party also referenced a statement posted on the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) website outlining the Government’s response to the situation in Venezuela.

The PNP urged the Holness administration to clearly uphold principles that have long guided Jamaica’s international reputation.