Wessin Chávez reintroduces bill to prevent religious extremism in Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Dominican lawmaker Elías Wessin Chávez, president of the Quisqueyan Christian Democratic Party (PQDC), has reintroduced a bill in the Chamber of Deputies aimed at preventing religious extremism associated with Sharia law, regulating mosque construction and protecting the country’s cultural identity.

Wessin Chávez said the proposal had previously expired in the lower house and was submitted again with mainly typographical and stylistic changes intended to clarify its original provisions.

The legislator said the initiative seeks to anticipate potential religious radicalization, citing conflicts in several European countries, particularly France, as a reference. He emphasized that the proposal does not respond to an imminent threat but is intended as a preventive measure.

Wessin Chávez also argued that the legislation would help preserve what he described as the Dominican Republic’s cultural and foundational values. Addressing concerns over religious freedom, he cited Article 45 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion while establishing respect for public order and morals.

Regarding the country’s Muslim community, the lawmaker pointed to the construction of a mosque in Verón, Punta Cana, and estimated that approximately 10 mosques currently operate in the Dominican Republic.

He maintained that the bill is intended to protect Dominican cultural identity and prevent the spread of extremist religious movements.