Dominicana Saludable accuses Faride Raful of violating Decree on alcohol sales

Santo Domingo.- Health and safety organizations in the Dominican Republic have expressed alarm over Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful’s decision to ease restrictions on alcohol sales starting December 15. The move includes unrestricted alcohol sales on December 24 and 31, a first in the country’s history. The coalition Dominicana Saludable, representing over 30 organizations, has strongly opposed the measure, criticizing it as a violation of Decree 308-06, which limits alcohol sales hours.

Dominicana Saludable argues that Minister Raful has exceeded her authority by overriding a presidential decree without a new one to justify the change. The coalition highlighted the health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, citing World Health Organization data linking alcohol to over 3.3 million annual deaths and numerous diseases. Local reports also show that nearly 50% of traffic fatalities in the Dominican Republic are alcohol-related. The coalition emphasized the importance of enforcing restrictions to protect vulnerable populations and reduce preventable harm.

The relaxation of restrictions has sparked widespread concern about potential consequences, including increased traffic accidents, violence, and public health risks. Dominicana Saludable warned that lifting these controls could lead to irreparable harm for many families and urged health authorities to take a firm stance against the measure. The coalition called for stricter enforcement of alcohol regulations, aligning with global strategies to curb harmful consumption.