Anti-Graft Fight Hits High Notes in Dominican Republic
A Glimmer of Hope Amidst Corruption
Santo Domingo - President Luis Abinader’s administration has launched an anti-corruption drive, resulting in a series of high-profile prosecutions that have given many Dominicans hope that their justice system is serious about tackling corruption. However, international organizations and experts warn that the country’s entrenched corruption culture will prove difficult to overcome.
Corruption Perception Index
According to Transparency International’s 2021 Corruption Perception Index, the Dominican Republic ranked 128th out of 180 countries, with public institutions remaining fragile and progress at risk of being lost. The US Department of State reported in April 2022 that while the attorney general pursued cases against public officials, including high-level politicians and their families, government corruption remained a serious problem.
Experts Weigh In
Experts suggest that administrative corruption has created an environment of impunity, where the line between the upper and underworld elite is blurred. “They all go to the same places,” said a senior international security expert. “You’d be amazed at how many criminals drink together with politicians and businessmen. They all find each other within two minutes.”
Recent Court Cases
Recent court cases have highlighted these links across the political spectrum. For example, in September 2021, congressman Héctor Darío Féliz Féliz was accused of hiding alleged drug kingpin Juan José de la Cruz Morales in his car as investigators arrived to arrest him.
- Other lawmakers have been linked to drug trafficking networks.
- Politicians have been accused of accepting bribes.
The Role of Weak Campaign Financing Laws
Weak campaign financing laws can provide broad cover for those seeking to buy political influence at the highest levels of the executive branch. Accused drug trafficker César Emilio Peralta claimed to have financed the 2016 campaign of former President Danilo Medina, who admitted he took the money but said he didn’t know it had come from drug trafficking.
Police Corruption
Police corruption is also a major concern, with elements within the force allegedly compromised and participating in organized crime. “A lack of clear rules and low salaries make many policemen participate in organized crime,” said Julio César De la Rosa Tiburcio, president of anti-corruption watchdog Adocco. “There is no way for organized crime to be successful without the participation, support, and involvement of authorities.”
The Road Ahead
Despite the challenges ahead, the anti-graft fight continues, with President Abinader’s administration vowing to tackle corruption head-on. The country’s future depends on it - a corrupt Dominican Republic would not only hinder its economic development but also undermine regional stability.
Conclusion
The Dominican Republic’s struggle against corruption is ongoing and complex. While there are glimmers of hope, the entrenched culture of corruption will require sustained efforts to overcome. The international community can play a crucial role in supporting the country’s anti-corruption efforts, ultimately ensuring a brighter future for the Dominican people.