The International Court of Justice has ordered Venezuela to refrain from holding any elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region.

In its ruling, the ICJ introduced the new, binding directive for the disputed territory.

Guyana’s President President Dr Irfaan Ali welcomed the decision, noting that his country’s position accords with international law.

Venezuela is set to hold elections for the Guayana Esequiba state during its upcoming regional polls on May 25th, just one day before Guyana marks its 59th Independence.