The JCE announced it is increasing the number of observers per national organization to a maximum of 1,140 persons. Previously, it had allocated some 570 permits for observers. The number of observers was doubled, taking into consideration the opinion of groups that pointed to the fact there are two sessions of voting – one for women and one for men. Accredited observers can move within the electoral colleges and request information about the process from the political delegates and the voters.
The JCE says it has only received requests from three national organizations that seek to participate as observers. These are the Red de Observadores Electorales, sponsored by Participación Ciudadana; the Federación Dominicana de Organizaciones Profesionales and the Comité Internacional de Vigilancia Electoral. The Red de Observadores Electorales had requested more observers.
The president of the JCE justified the maximum number of observers saying, “For the function of an observer, 1,140 is more than enough, because they will limit themselves to seeing, not watching over nor supervising. That is the prerogative of the political delegates, who have the right to intervene and object should it be necessary.” He commented that this is the first time there are national observers of the election, as in the past this role was only assigned to foreigners.
The president of the JCE said they are preparing a Press Center at the Hotel Lina, where foreign and local journalists will be able to cover the election.