The entire country was on strike Monday, 11 July. In many cities such as Santiago, Santo Domingo and Nagua, riots broke out. Angry youths threw stones at soldiers and police and set tires on fire. The military and police acted tough against the troublemakers. In Puerto Plata were also many military and police officials present. But the streets were deserted and most shops were closed throughout the day. In Sos?a there were also military and police present, the shops were closed, there was no traffic on the roads and the beach was almost deserted. The strikes were called by all unions. Hereby they wish to protest against the rising fuel and food prices, as well as to protest against rising unemployment. For the northern coast this is caused by the drastic decline in tourism, the closure of the sugar factory and closing of the Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca).
Many families live in abject poverty and the unions hope that with this strike the government understands that something has to change.
Many families live in abject poverty and the unions hope that with this strike the government understands that something has to change.