Santo Domingo.- In a move that continues to raise questions, Nelson Gutiérrez, the director of the General Directorate of Migration (DGM), resigned from his position on February 22nd. No details regarding the reasons behind his decision were offered.
His resignation comes just months after he was appointed to the position by Venancio Alcántara, the DGM’s director. Prior to his appointment, Gutiérrez served as a journalist and lawyer, specializing in human rights defense. He is also the director of the National Council on Human Rights (Conadehu).
In a statement, Gutiérrez said that he would “go back to doing what I know how to do, defend human rights.” He did not specify the reason for his resignation, but said that he would provide more details in a press conference in the coming days.
While the official cause for the resignation remains unclear, speculation centers on several possibilities. One potential factor could be disagreements with the government’s immigration policies. Additionally, the DGM’s management has faced criticism from certain sectors.
Another possibility gaining traction is Gutiérrez’s potential interest in running for political office in the upcoming elections. However, this remains unconfirmed.
Personal reasons also cannot be ruled out as a motivating factor behind Gutiérrez’s decision.
The Ministry of Interior and Police has launched an investigation to determine the reasons behind Gutiérrez’s resignation. Further details are expected to be released in the coming days.
President Abinader has yet to comment on the resignation. The news has elicited mixed reactions, with some expressing surprise and concern about the sudden departure, while others have applauded Gutiérrez’s move, viewing it as an act of courage.