President Balaguer brought back his old campaign theme when participating in a major rally in Santiago and calling for Dominicans to vote on 16 May for the people, for Dominicans, and for the continuation of the works that have permitted the development of the nation. He also had strong criticism for foreign intervention in national affairs. The rally was said to be larger than a similar rally held to close the campaign activities for the party in Santiago in 1994 when he was presidential candidate.
Dr Balaguer, who has remained silent during his previous campaign appearances, said:
“Let us vote on 16 May, first against foreign intervention and against the conversation of the island into one nation, under one flag. Let us vote in favor of the continuation of the building of schools, hospitals, streets, and dams for the Dominican people. Fellow Dominicans let us vote for the people, the Dominican people. That is all I wanted to say, and I have said so, so you can reflect on this. Thank you.”