On Tuesday, 3 December 2024, legislators of the Modern Revolutionary Party voting in favor of approving the 2025 National Budget as received from the Presidency. Despite objections from the opposition legislators, the ruling party majority successfully pushed through the legislation in an urgent session.
The government estimates a total revenue of RD$1,681,728,011,591 for the upcoming year, with a substantial portion coming from loans. These funds will be allocated to various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Opposition lawmakers, particularly those from the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD) and the Fuerza del Pueblo, expressed deep concerns about the budget, citing excessive borrowing and insufficient funding for certain regions and sectors. They argued that the government’s plan to reduce poverty through increased social spending is not sustainable and that the heavy reliance on loans will burden future generations.
“How do you plan to eliminate hunger by giving out Christmas bonuses?” questioned PLD deputy Danilo Díaz, criticizing the government’s approach to poverty alleviation.
Opposition members also raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the budget process and the limited opportunities for public input. They pointed out that the budget allocates a significant portion of funds to pay off existing debts, leaving less for new investments.
Government officials defended the budget, arguing that it is necessary to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
“The opposition is simply playing politics,” said ruling party lawmaker Amado Díaz. “They were the ones who created this deficit in the first place,” he said.
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Listin Diario
4 December 2024