Chamber of Deputies approves urgent bill for Constitutional reform

Santo Domingo.- The Chamber of Deputies has approved a bill calling for a constitutional reform, passing it with urgency and with the backing of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM). In the first reading, the legislation garnered 135 votes in favor and one opposing vote from Elías Wessin Chávez of the Quisqueyano Christian Democratic Party (PQDC). The second reading saw unanimous approval with 136 votes from present legislators.

The bill, which will now be sent to the Executive Branch for promulgation, includes provisions prohibiting presidential re-election after two terms, ensuring the autonomy of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and establishing the method for electing the Attorney General of the Republic. Additionally, it proposes aligning municipal elections with congressional and presidential elections every four years on the third Sunday of May, with newly elected officials assuming office on August 16 starting in 2032. The reform also aims to reduce the membership of the Chamber of Deputies from 190 to 170.

During the voting session, members of the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD) and the People’s Force (FP) walked out, arguing that the constitutional changes are not a priority for the populace and that their participation would lend legitimacy to what they deem unnecessary reforms. A dissenting report submitted by the PLD was rejected, with party members asserting that the proposed changes were a distraction from pressing issues facing the country.

The bill will proceed to the National Revision Assembly, which has 15 days to convene and determine if the constitutional modifications will be enacted.

Source: El Nuevo Diario