Former President Leonel Fernández supporter, Vinicio Castillo Seman, argues that the three leading presidential candidates should participate in a debate. He called for the participation of Leonel Fernández, Luis Abinader and Gonzalo Castillo. He says voters would like to hear from them on their proposals to confront the economic and health challenges created by the Covid-19 epidemic.
The presidential and congressional election was postponed to 5 July 2020, just in time for the change of government mandated by the Constitution for 16 August 2020. The date chosen gives time for a second round vote on 26 July, if necessary. 50%+1 of the vote is necessary to win the election in a first round.
“If the debate was important before the crisis, now it is even more important. It is vital that the people know to whom they will hand over the nation’s command in 60 days; their capabilities, their experiences and their proposals,” he argued.
The senatorial candidate for the National Progressive Force (PNP), a staunch ally of former President Leonel Fernández, argues that the campaign can not limit itself to being a competition of donations and populist actions. “What are we going to do with the country, how are we going to do it, and who can lead this delicate process in the midst of such a strong economic and social storm,” said Castillo Seman.
Of the three, former President Leonel Fernández is the most experienced and polished public speaker. The presidential candidate of the ruling Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Gonzalo Castillo, is known for his lack of capacity as a public speaker.
Castillo Seman also would like to have a televised debate at the congressional level. He said he has invited congresswoman Faride Raful, who is running for the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), to debate with Rafael Paz of the PLD.
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Listin Diario
6 May 2020