Political reactions to the new format of The Weekly Agenda
The recent announcement regarding the transition of La Semanal to the new format called La Agenda Semanal has generated diverse reactions in the political sphere. Opposition legislators have expressed their concern, arguing that the current structure, which limits direct interaction with the media, could affect transparency in the exercise of communication.
Questioning journalistic practice
Congresswoman Ydenia Doñé was one of the critical voices, pointing out that the requirement to send questions in advance conditions the work of journalists. According to the legislator, this method reduces spontaneity and freedom for the press, a sector she considers deserving of more direct treatment from the Executive Branch.
Communicators deserve respect, because they are the ones who bring communication to the Dominican people.
Ydenia Doñé, Deputy
Doñé took the opportunity to extend his criticisms toward public management issues, questioning the current administration’s handling of vital sectors such as citizen security, health, and the national education system.
Focus on government management
For his part, Deputy José Alberto Jiménez, representative of the Fuerza del Pueblo party, downplayed the logistical adjustments of the presidential space. For Jiménez, the debate should not focus on the format of the questions, but on the effectiveness of the government’s responses to social issues.
The problem is not with the journalists’ questions.
José Alberto Jiménez, Deputy
The congressman also emphasized the need for the Government to prioritize resolving deficiencies in educational centers and optimize the use of administrative resources in the public sector.
Details about The Weekly Agenda
The new modality, which began this Monday, August 24, seeks to centralize coordination between President Luis Abinader and his cabinet. According to what was reported by the Press Office, the scheme will operate under a closed-circuit model, where the president and his officials will evaluate public policies, results, and obstacles in real time.
- The program will be broadcast via streaming to allow for citizen monitoring.
- The format excludes the physical presence of media outlets at the meeting location.
- The stated objective is to oversee the execution of national priorities directly.
With this change, the Government seeks a more technical and closed work dynamic, while various political sectors maintain their critical stance regarding the Executive’s transparency.
