A Penn, Schoen & Berland survey carried out for El Siglo newspaper showed that 61% of Dominicans are in favor of reforming the Constitution. 55% nevertheless feel the revision should not occur now as Dominican congressmen would like. There is a strong movement within Dominican Congress to pass the congressional reform now. Critics say that congressmen are interested in the reform because they see it as a way of extending their terms in office that will be up in August 2002. The survey held 7-11 February nationwide says that 77% of Dominicans feel former President Joaquin Balaguer should retire from politics. Nevertheless, 63% say that his influence has been positive. Dominicans are divided over whether former President Leonel Fernandez will return to power. 47% feel he will be elected again, 46% believe he does not stand a chance.
