It's clear that many don't really understand the power structure of the Dominican Republic. Where First Worlders come from the politicians have the power as granted by "the people."
Like Patrick said, this ain't Kansas.
The actual power in the DR is neither the people nor politicians. It's the military...and that includes the NP, Politur and AMET. Politicians are an unconnected subset of the military hierarchy.
Why do you think such a small country has such a large military?
Why do you think there are a couple of hundred generals in the military...and EACH PRESIDENT APPOINTS MORE?
Why do you think the heads of the various police agencies dress like military generals?
Why do you think many Dominicans make it a point to have a General...or at MINIMUM a Colonel...on their Christmas "Johnny Walker" list?
A number of DR1ers know this, and have a card from a general or colonel on their person at all times, like a "get out of jail free" card.
Force controls a society, and the military in the DR has, by far, the most guns...and a command structure.
This is not an uncommon situation in many LA countries. Look around.