First Lady explains President Abinader’s absence from events for the Day of Altagracia

Higüey, La Altagracia. – The First Lady of the Republic, Raquel Arbaje, explained this Wednesday that the absence of President Luis Abinader at the official acts for the Day of Our Lady of Altagracia was due to a health condition caused by a flu virus. Arbaje reported that the president presented a fever close to 38 degrees, persistent cough, and lack of energy since the previous night, which prevented him from attending the traditional mass celebrated in the Basilica Cathedral of Higüey. He clarified that, according to the initial medical evaluation, it is not influenza, but a common flu virus. The First Lady detailed that the President woke up without enough strength to fulfill the planned agenda, so it was decided to prioritize his rest. Representing the Head of State, Raquel Arbaje and the Vice President of the Republic, Raquel Peña, attended the Eucharist.

We recommend reading: Moment of tension in the Basilica of Higüey due to health mishap

The mass was officiated by the bishop of the Diocese of Higüey, Jesús Castro Marte, and was attended by national and municipal authorities, as well as thousands of parishioners who came from different areas of the country to participate in the religious celebration. The activities were carried out under a broad security and prevention operation, amidst the renovation work being done around the basilica, with the aim of strengthening religious tourism in the area.