No guns, booze, rallies or militaries, Electoral Board warns

Santo Domingo.- The Central Electoral Board (JCE) on Tuesdayissued the legal ban on propaganda, shows, announcements and rallies via radio,TV and other media, as well as the carrying firearms openly, which takes effect 24 hoursbefore Sunday, to guarantee each citizen’s right to vote.

In a statement, the JCE said the Electoral Law stipulates thatthe institution could adopt all appropriate transient measures to ensure successfulelections.

"We are instructing the heads of the Election Boards,members and the presidents of electoral stations so that, if necessary, makeuse of the powers granted them by law against anyone, media or establishmentviolates the above provisions, resorting to the assistance of the ElectoralMilitary Police, in cases that merit."

It said Article 108 bans shows and demonstrations on ElectionDay, either in open or closed premises. In addition to banning rallies orpublic meetings of a political nature 24 hours before the elections. “The saleof alcohol can only take place three hours after voting ends.”

The JCE said it can also prohibit the display of firearmsand use of force during the electoral process.

“The commanders and officers of the Armed Forces and policeauthorities must also keep their personnel garrisoned throughout the day whenthe process concludes, except those which guarantee the development of thesuffrage."