Groups criticize law granting new powers to the Superior Electoral Court

Santo Domingo.- Social organizations, including the Dominican Bar Association (CARD), the Dominican Alliance Against Corruption (ADOCCO), and the Justice and Transparency Foundation (FJT), have raised concerns about the constitutionality of a recently approved law that gives the Superior Electoral Tribunal (TSE) jurisdiction over professional and other associations.

These groups argue that the law violates the Constitution and undermines democracy by allowing the TSE to intervene in internal disputes within associations. Specifically, Article 12, paragraph 10, which grants the TSE authority to hear and decide on conflicts within these organizations, is viewed as overstepping constitutional boundaries.

The organizations are urging lawmakers to amend the bill and remove these controversial provisions, which they believe infringe upon the autonomy of professional associations and civil society organizations.