The Partido Reformista Social Cristiano, the third largest political party in the DR, has announced the convention to choose its presidential candidate in the 16 May 2000 presidential election will be held in the first 15 days of January 2000. By then, 93-year old former President Joaquín Balaguer should decide whether he will run for President or not. Political secretary of the party, Federico Antún Batlle said that all aspirants to the presidential nomination may run in the event. These include former Vice President Jacinto Peynado, San Pedro de Macorís Senator José Hazim, former Vice President Carlos Morales Troncoso, former Governor of the Central Bank Mario Read Vittini, and politician Angel Lockward. Balaguer has delayed the announcement of his intentions to run for the last minute, citing health considerations. Other aspirants say they are candidates in reserve and will not run while Balaguer aspires to the post.
