Campaigning for the 19 May 2024 presidential and congressional election ends at midnight on Thursday, 16 May. Dominicans get two full days to finalize their decision on who to vote for. This also means taking the time to check the number of the vote box of the Presidential, senate and deputy candidates of choice before entering the voting room, so as to complete the voting process in the shortest time. Take note, for instance, that the presidential candidates are running on different ballots because several majority and minority parties are backing the candidates. Citizens can vote for a presidential candidate on the ballot of a minority party to give that party more votes so it can then win deputy seats, for instance, or reach the desired 2% to keep their JCE party recognition level.
This year, reportedly the JCE says it will enforce the measure that calls for cell phones not to be used when carrying out the voting or inside the voting station. Cell phones were allowed for the municipal elections, but using the phone to photograph one’s vote is a crime.
Drinking in public places is banned 24 hours before the election and 12 hours after. Expect families and friends to gather at home to await the results. The JCE has said at least 20% of the vote will be counted in all stations by 8:30pm. The polls start at 7am and close at 5pm.
What to wear? There is no legal restrictions on voting in shorts or other informal attire. It is a Sunday. But respect for others and attire that does not call attention is best.
Those in the Dominican Republic on vacation may not notice the elections are happening. On the contrary, the election may reduce traffic jams as people gather at home or with friends to await the results.
The sale of alcoholic beverages is banned from 7am on Saturday until 5am on Monday, 20 May. Yet, hotels in tourist areas are exempt from the prohibition.
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16 May 2024