Senatorial Candidates Debate Labor Reform and Haitian Immigration in Dominican Republic

The leading candidates for the Senate of the National District in the Dominican Republic, Guillermo Moreno from the Partido Revolucionario Moderno (PRM) and Omar Fernández from the Fuerza del Pueblo party, faced off in a debate organized by the National Association of Young Entrepreneurs (ANJE) on Sunday. The candidates discussed key issues such as labor code reform, education investment, and illegal Haitian immigration.

On the topic of labor regulations, Moreno rejected proposals to eliminate severance pay for dismissed workers, stating that reforms should focus on introducing new work modalities and supporting first-time employment while preserving severance as a worker's right. Fernández expressed support for protecting all acquired rights of workers, including severance pay.

The debate turned tense when Moreno questioned Fernández about past decisions made by his father, former president Leonel Fernández, regarding education funding. "Your presidential candidate, former president Leonel Fernández, had initially opposed the idea of investing 4% of GDP in education," Moreno said. Fernández responded by asking Moreno not to try to sow discord between a father and son.

Why this matters: The debate highlights the ongoing discussions in the Dominican Republic about balancing labor protections with economic growth and competitiveness. The outcome of the senatorial race in the National District could influence the direction of future labor reforms and policies.

Regarding the issue of illegal Haitian immigration, both candidates agreed that the Dominican Republic is an independent country and that any illegal immigrant, regardless of nationality, should be returned to their country of origin. Fernández referenced the creation of a bicameral commission to address the recent conflict and emphasized the importance of fair compensation for military personnel stationed at the border.

The candidates also found common ground on the need for a new Penal Code to combat growing crime in the country. However, Fernández criticized the government for supporting Moreno's candidacy, while Moreno made frequent references to President Luis Abinader, drawing criticism on social media.

In his closing remarks, Fernández stated, "I would prefer to leave politics rather than embarrass my family, emphasizing that 'not everything is valid in politics.'" The debate, which covered a range of important issues facing the Dominican Republic, provided voters with insights into the positions and priorities of the leading senatorial candidates in the National District.

Key Takeaways

• Candidates Moreno (PRM) and Fernández (Fuerza del Pueblo) debated key issues in Dominican Senate race.
• Moreno rejected eliminating severance pay, while Fernández supported protecting workers' rights.
• Debate turned tense over Fernández's father's past education funding decisions.
• Both candidates agreed on deporting illegal immigrants and creating a new Penal Code.
• Fernández stated he would leave politics rather than embarrass his family in the debate.