Former CDES leader asks Abinader to include energy crisis and citizen security in his speech

Santiago.- Former president of the Council for the Strategic Development of Santiago (CDES) and expert in citizen security, Juan Carlos Ortiz, considered this Thursday that the accountability speech that the president will deliver this February 27 must include concrete answers on security, institutional resilience, economy and the high cost of living, issues that in his opinion directly concern the Dominican population. Ortiz maintained that the head of state should refer to the procedures to be followed in case of repeated failures or blackouts in the national electricity system, such as the one that occurred recently, and propose a clear protocol for action in crisis situations.

“We must have a defined protocol for when these types of situations occur in the Dominican Republic, but also a protocol of institutional and social resilience, which guarantees economic stability and tranquility for the population,” he expressed.

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Citizen and road safety, pending issues

In terms of security, the specialist stated that the country needs to hear more firm proposals on citizen security and road safety, due to the increase in traffic accidents and the high mortality rate on the roads. He warned that, if the current trend continues, the road safety problem could worsen considerably, so he understands it is essential to strengthen law enforcement, civic education and inter-institutional coordination. Economic growth and family basket Ortiz also asked the president to offer a transparent balance on the projected economic growth for 2025 and the prospects for 2026, in order to determine if the announced goals have been met. He also emphasized that the population expects solutions to the constant increase in the family basket, especially the most vulnerable sectors.

“It is important that people have hope that they will be able to continue to put food on their table and that prices will not continue to rise uncontrollably,” he said.

Investment in mobility and public-private commitment The former president of the CDES indicated that the presidential speech should explain how the sustainability and proper use of the large investments in mobility that the Government is carrying out will be guaranteed, such as the expansion of the Metro, the Cable Car, and the intervention of important roads in the country. He raised the need to strengthen the alliance between the public and private sectors to ensure that these projects are maintained under criteria of planning, control, and respect for the rules.

Justice and agricultural sector

Regarding the judicial system, Ortiz acknowledged the separation of powers, but suggested that the Executive Branch should promote transformations that allow citizens to perceive more tangible results in terms of justice. Finally, he referred to the recent appointment of the new Minister of Agriculture, highlighting that his experience in the sector could translate into initiatives that reduce the cost of basic foods.

“Producing is costly, but from the State there must be planning to support those who produce the food consumed by the Dominican people,” he stated.

The expert concluded by sending a message of support to the president, asking God to grant him health and wisdom to continue leading the country with commitment and responsibility.