During his 18 August 2021 first year speech, President Luis Abinader urged the amending of the Constitution. Overtly, Abinader is arguing the need to strengthen the justice system and make it more independent. The ruling Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) does not have the two-thirds majority in Congress to do so and must secure the vote of the legislators of the opposition political parties. Analysts say that once the legislature is convened to make the amendments for the strengthening of independence in Justice, anything else could be introduced. They alert to covert deals between politicians that could work against the collective interest.
In his remarks in favor of getting the ball rolling for constitutional reform, President Abinader called for the reaching of a political consensus to achieve 12 reforms, including constitutional reform.
Yet, Listin Diario reporters dug up Art. 262 of the Constitution that states that the Constitution cannot be changed during a state of exception, of which there are three: national defense, internal disturbances and states of emergency.
The present National State of Emergency first called for Covid-19 in March 2020 expires on 26 August 2021. President Abinader has requested a new extension of 45 days. Covid-19 is very much under control in the Dominican Republic, with curfew removed for La Altagracia (Punta Cana) and the National District, the capital city after the populations in these areas reached the requirement of 70% being fully vaccinated.
The emergency extension request was made in a letter to Eduardo Estrella, president of the Senate. President Abinader argues the extension is needed to control the spread of Covid-19.
“Thanks to the curfew and other social distancing measures adopted during the State of Emergency, it has been possible to exercise control over the disease, which is why it is necessary to maintain and customize them, while ensuring a gradual and safe economic reopening,” President Abinader wrote in the letter to the Senate.
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23 August 2021