Roberto Rosario Márquez Urges Abinader to Disclose Campaign Costs Before Fiscal Reform

Former Electoral Board President Roberto Rosario Márquez has called on President Luis Abinader to disclose the costs of his re-election campaign from January to May 2024. Rosario Márquez's demand comes as Abinader seeks to implement fiscal reform in the Dominican Republic.

Transparency in campaign financing is essential for maintaining trust in democratic institutions and ensuring that elected officials are accountable to the people. Failure to disclose campaign costs can lead to corruption and undermine the legitimacy of the electoral process.

President Abinader, who secured his re-election in a landslide, has faced scrutiny despite his anti-corruption agenda. Critics argue that he has not gone far enough in addressing issues within his administration and his numerous offshore companies. Rosario Márquez's call for transparency adds to the growing pressure on Abinader's administration.

Rosario Márquez emphasized the importance of transparency in campaign financing, particularly before pursuing significant fiscal reforms that could impact the nation's economy. The period in question, January to May 2024, encompasses pivotal months leading up to the presidential and congressional elections scheduled for May 19, 2024.

The Central Electoral Board (JCE) has been active in the lead-up to the elections, issuing 75,475 duplicate identity cards from May 1 to May 11, 2024, free of charge. This move aims to ensure that all eligible voters, including the 863,785 registered abroad, can participate in the electoral process.

President Abinader, one of the wealthiest presidents in Latin America, has been campaigning vigorously in Greater Santo Domingo under the banner of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM). His administration's handling of various issues, including corruption and relations with neighboring Haiti, has been a focal point of his campaign.

Abinader's approach towards Haiti, particularly his policies targeting migrants amid a humanitarian crisis, has drawn significant condemnation. A Jesuit university academic director recently described his stance as a 'public and international disgrace', adding to the controversies surrounding his administration.

The Dominican Republic prepares for its upcoming elections, the demand for transparency in campaign financing and the broader implications of fiscal reform remain critical issues. The call from Rosario Márquez highlights the need for accountability and clarity from the nation's leadership.

Key Takeaways

• Former Electoral Board President Roberto Rosario Márquez demands President Luis Abinader disclose re-election campaign costs.
• Transparency in campaign financing is crucial for maintaining trust in democratic institutions.
• Abinader's administration faces scrutiny despite anti-corruption agenda, with critics citing offshore companies and unaddressed issues.
• Upcoming elections in the Dominican Republic on May 19, 2024, will be impacted by fiscal reforms and campaign financing transparency.
• Rosario Márquez's call for transparency adds pressure on Abinader's administration to ensure accountability and clarity.