Fuerza del Pueblo denounces irregularities in ANPA elections

Fuerza del Pueblo denounces irregularities in ANPA elections

The People’s Force (FP) has raised its voice to denounce a series of alleged irregularities and statutory violations that reportedly marred the recent electoral process of the National Association of Agricultural Professionals (ANPA), held on September 30th. In these elections, the union factions linked to the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) and the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD) competed.

Héctor Acosta, Secretary of Agricultural Affairs of the political organization, led the press conference where the critical points of the process were detailed, accompanied by a delegation of leaders from the Agricultural Union Force and the Agri-food and Environmental Sub-cabinet of the FP.

Main points of the conflict

• Irregular composition: The formation of the National Electoral Commission was questioned, noting that its president, Juan Alejo Feliz, simultaneously held a position on the ANPA National Executive Committee, contravening Article 72 of the union’s statutes.
• Voter roll manipulation: The FP denounced the arbitrary exclusion of more than 500 professionals who were up to date with their dues, while 600 people who, according to the organization, did not meet the required statutory conditions were allowed to vote.
• Judicial contempt: Despite a ruling from the Court of First Instance of the National District that ordered the correction of flaws following the initial suspension of the elections, the entity asserts that said provisions were not complied with.
• Obstruction and violence: The expulsion of leaders and the use of physical force against Fausto Monegro, delegate of the Fuerza Gremial before the commission, who was injured after demanding access to the electoral roll, were reported.

Representation claim and election results

Beyond the complaints, the Fuerza del Pueblo demands that the distribution of positions in the National Executive Committee be respected. According to their calculations, the Fuerza Gremial Agropecuaria is entitled to three positions and not two, including a space for its presidential candidate, José Vásquez. The organization emphasizes that its claim seeks to guarantee respect for the will expressed by the professionals at the polls and not a political concession.

Despite the obstacles, our movement managed to obtain 40% of the valid votes against an alliance of two political forces, which demonstrates our strength and the support of the sector’s professionals.

Héctor Acosta, Secretary of Agricultural Affairs of the FP

Finally, the Fuerza del Pueblo called for union independence, criticizing that the ANPA has lost its capacity to respond to the profitability crisis, the increase in imports, and the high food prices currently affecting the Dominican agricultural sector. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to continue fighting for a democratic association that respects its own statutes.