Eduardo Martínez defends Santiago Matías’ constitutional right to enter politics
Communicator Eduardo Martínez recently spoke out regarding the recognition process of the Dominicanos Primero party, led by Santiago Matías, emphasizing that any action aimed at hindering these aspirations could be interpreted as a limitation on the popular will and the fundamental rights enshrined in the Dominican Constitution.
Martínez analyzed the current landscape in light of the recent warning issued by the Central Electoral Board (JCE) regarding the legal requirements demanded for the formation of new political organizations. While the analyst admitted that the electoral body is acting in accordance with current legislation, he questioned the timing and the background of said pronouncement.
Being responsible to myself, I have to point out and acknowledge that the warning from the Central Electoral Board is supported by what is established in the electoral law, in accordance with the requirements for a political organization to be recognized.
Eduardo Martínez
A call for equity in political participation
For Martínez, the debate transcends the figure of Santiago Matías and should focus on guaranteeing the constitutional right to elect and be elected. The communicator stressed that this principle must be protected for any citizen, regardless of their origin, social stratum, or connections to traditional power sectors.
The analyst warned about the danger of sending an exclusionary message to society, suggesting that preventing the participation of figures outside of traditional politics could be interpreted as a systematic restriction towards those who come from humble sectors. In his view, the success of a candidacy should not be conditioned by social caste or economic power, but by strict compliance with legal regulations.
Legality as the only standard
- The discussion must focus exclusively on compliance with the legal requirements demanded by the JCE.
- External pressures or factors unrelated to the law must be prevented from acting as barriers for new applicants.
- Political participation must be a free exercise for every Dominican who demonstrates interest and a vocation for service.
Finally, Martínez reiterated that curbing Matías’s aspirations, if he meets the legal parameters, would be an act that contradicts the will of those citizens who support his project. The communicator’s call is clear: to guarantee a level playing field where the Constitution is the only guide for participation in national political life.
