Dominican Republic Voters Cast Ballots; Incumbent Luis Abinader Expects Another Term

Voters in the Dominican Republic are heading to the polls to elect a new president and members of parliament.

This Dominican Republic elections 2024 is seen as a crucial referendum on the incumbent, President Luis Abinader, who is known for his anti-corruption efforts.

With up to 8 million eligible voters, the outcome will determine who is best suited to address the humanitarian crisis in neighboring Haiti, tackle government corruption, and manage inflation and inequality in the Caribbean's leading tourist destination.

President Luis Abinader, a former businessman and leader of the Modern Revolutionary Party, is running for re-election.

He has garnered significant support for his effective management of the COVID-19 crisis, his firm stance on issues concerning Haiti, and his anti-corruption initiatives, Reuters reports.

His main challengers are three-time former President Leonel Fernandez of the People's Force Party and Abel Martinez of the Dominican Liberation Party.

Fernandez has criticized Abinader for being weak on the economy and crime, while Martinez, a first-time candidate, has touted his achievements as mayor of the country's second-largest city.

Voting Process Runs Smoothly

As of late morning, the voting process was reported to be running smoothly, with no major issues.

Polling stations were secured by soldiers as citizens cast their ballots, according to Aljazeera.

If no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, a second round will be held on June 30.

Luis Abinader is favored to win outright in the first round, which would eliminate the need for a runoff.

President Abinader, who is 56, enjoys approval ratings of around 70%, according to a September CID-Gallup poll.

He is credited with revitalizing the tourism industry and achieving a GDP growth of 5% in 2024, according to World Bank figures.

However, crime remains a significant issue, compounded by concerns over migrants from Haiti.

The US State Department has highlighted crime in its travel advisories for the Dominican Republic, and many citizens fear that an influx of Haitian migrants could worsen the security situation.

Critics argue that Abinader still has work to do to address inflation and inequality.

Nonetheless, many believe that the recent overhaul of election laws, the country's first-ever presidential debate in April, and the administration's anti-corruption drive will contribute to a successful election, regardless of the outcome.

Border Policies and Criticism

Since the 2021 assassination of Haiti's President Moise, Haiti's instability has led many Haitians to seek refuge in the Dominican Republic.

In response, President Luis Abinader's administration has increased deportations and planned a border wall, actions both supported domestically and criticized by human rights organizations for being discriminatory and separating families.

The Dominican Republic elections 2024 have highlighted citizens' concerns about migration and security.

Perla Concepcion, a 29-year-old secretary, stressed the urgency of controlling migration, AP News noted.

Alongside the presidential race, legislative elections took place, with polls closing at 5 PM.

Despite previous election issues, voters like Abelardo Ubri Antomarche emphasized the importance of participation.

As results are awaited, the focus is on how the new administration will address migration, crime, and inequality.

President Luis Abinader's anti-corruption and economic growth agendas remain crucial, shaping the nation's political future.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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