Abinader calls EDE deficit his government’s “greatest challenge”

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader identified improving tax collection at state-owned electricity distribution companies (EDE) as one of his administration’s biggest challenges. Speaking at a press conference at the National Palace, he highlighted that while many citizens receive subsidies for electricity, others do not, and addressing the EDE’s financial deficit remains critical despite investments in power infrastructure.

Abinader also noted significant progress in electricity generation, forecasting a 15% surplus by the end of his term, with substantial growth in renewable energy capacity.

On another front, the president acknowledged the complexity of the country’s mental health issues, describing them as part of a broader, universal problem. He expressed personal impact over a recent violent attack in Santo Domingo’s Naco neighborhood, where a close associate of First Lady Raquel Arbaje was killed. In response, Public Health Minister Víctor Atallah announced plans to tender construction of two new mental health centers in Espaillat and Azua, along with a pilot program to provide psychological services in hospital emergency rooms.