Santo Domingo.– The former President of the Republic, Hipólito Mejía, reacted to the emergence of Dominicanos Primero, a political organization promoted by businessman Santiago Matías (Alofoke), by considering it a new party that will have to wait to demonstrate its ability to consolidate itself on the national political stage.
When questioned about the possibility of Matías becoming an outsider capable of breaking into Dominican politics, Mejía replied: “He hasn’t appeared yet. Let him arrive,” although he warned that achieving that goal will not be simple.
“It is good that he appears. Now, using bad words doesn’t get you anywhere,” expressed the former president when referring to the communication style that has also characterized the influencer and content producer.
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Mejía, who claimed to have 60 years of experience in political activity, was also asked about the role of young people in politics and took the opportunity to urge them to trust in the country, in their families, and in their own capabilities.
Santiago Matías’ foray into Dominican politics has taken shape with the creation of Dominicanos Primero, a project through which the businessman and communicator seeks to participate in the 2028 elections. Matías previously rejected the possibility of running from an existing political organization and opted to promote his own structure, the recognition process for which is underway before the Central Electoral Board (JCE).
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His aspirations have generated mixed opinions among political leaders, business people, and other sectors. In addition to Hipólito Mejía, former president Leonel Fernández has also defined him as a “communicational phenomenon,” although he has pointed out that building an organization requires territorial structure and political vision.
In that sense, the challenge for Matías will be to translate the broad influence he has built over years in the media and digital platforms into a party structure with territorial presence, leaders, militancy, and the capacity to compete electorally.
“Do not have faith in the country, have confidence in the country, have confidence in your family, be an example in the family, and believe in our homeland,” he stated.
The former president also defended the importance of fostering patriotic fervor among new generations and considered that initiatives such as those promoted by the National District Mayor’s Office can contribute to bringing authorities closer to vulnerable sectors.
Hipólito Values “Plastics for School Supplies”
On another note, Mejía described the “Plastics for School Supplies” program as “a great initiative,” which is being developed by the National District City Hall, although he pointed out that it is not a new initiative and highlighted that it has been running for several years.
As explained, the program has a dual purpose: to contribute to reducing the pollution caused by plastic waste and, at the same time, to provide relief to families in marginalized sectors through the exchange of bottles for school supplies.
“It is a great initiative, although not new, it has already been around for several years,” stated Mejía, who highlighted the participation of the citizenry in the event.
The former president considered that these types of actions allow authorities to reach out to communities with greater needs and address some of the economic difficulties that families face.
“This is reaching the marginalized sectors of the population. And it must be seen, because there is a lot of marginalization in this country and in many countries,” he maintained.
The statements were made during their participation in the “Plastics for School Supplies” day, an activity that seeks to encourage recycling and support families ahead of the start of the school year.
“Plastics for School Supplies”, which celebrates its 3rd edition, seeks to involve families in recycling activities and promote responsible practices related to environmental conservation.
