I believe that it will get worse before it gets better. Fiscal measures need to be taken to restructure the enormous debt, and internal processes put in place to pay the debt. Peso to the Dollar, I also think it will go to somewhere around 70 to 1 (just my gut feel - DON'T take this to the bank!). Electricity? I think it is going to be turned off quite soon now.
But, Leonel proved himself somewhat competent at governing the previous time around. Although I am sure we are all very relieved at the outcome of the election, I would not want his job for all the Tea in China! Simply to think of the internal infrastructure problems to be addressed, makes me shake my head already.
Let's hope that Leonel used the previous 4 years to think and structure a feasible plan to manage and govern this country. I like the bankruptcy idea - can a country get what is called in the US 'bankruptcy protection'?
I would also like to see a strong move to change the general 'corruption mindset' and would like to see a civil service not beholden to the party in power, but responsible for doing a job of work. If Leonel makes partners with the business community, and gains their respect and trust, it can only be beneficial in the longer term.
My sense is (after talking and dancing and celebrating with a delightfully deliriousy happy and fully intoxicated crowd in the streets in Cabarete yesterday), that the average person out there actually understands that things will be a little worse while the balances in the country are addressed. I do not think people are expecting miracles overnight. I also feel that the Dominican people handled themselves with great restraint throughout this election process - and surprised us all. Perhaps we should declare this the year of supporting our fellow Dominicans, instead of always expecting and complaining about substandard work and substandard decision making. Perhaps some of us with skillsets should devote some of our time and teach, teach, teach!
Whatever, I still can't think clearly - I am just so relieved that it turned out the way it did! For us, some old business plans are being dusted off and put into operation as soon as we can. See, this a good thing already! The business community at large must have gained a better confidence level overnight.