The President of the Junta Central Electoral, Manuel Ramon Morel Cerda addressed the case of Claubian Jan Jacques, responding to correspondence received by several associations that seek that a Dominican birth certificate be issued to the 18-year old. Jacques was recently recognized for his scholastic achievements by the Dominican government, but his graduation is imperiled because he doesn’t have a birth certificate. Dr. Morel Cerda replied to the organizations that the student has not presented the necessary documentation. Missing are a passport or birth certificate of his mother. Also a certificate that he has not been declared before, nor has been baptized. In a letter sent to associations that are defending his case, Morel Cerda explained that pre-established procedures have to be followed, an exceptions cannot be made just because the person is of an ethnic minority. Minister of Education Ligia Amada Melo said that the student would not have to quit school because he is a son of Haitians and does not have a birth certificate. She said the authorities would not expel him for not having a birth certificate. Jacques’ parents came to the DR to cut sugar cane with a temporary work contract. They have never legalized their stay.
