Opposition questions Abinader’s goal regarding the completion of works before 2028
President Luis Abinader’s announcement to complete 80% of pending public works before the end of his second term on August 16, 2028, has sparked an intense debate in the National Congress. While the ruling party bloc trusts in the Government’s execution capacity, opposition legislators have expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of this commitment.
Opposition voices criticize project management
Dominican Liberation Party (PLD) deputy, Danilo Díaz, described the announcement as just another promise, questioning the lack of compliance in critical areas such as health, migration, and taxes. According to Díaz, the current administration has prioritized announcements over tangible results, pointing to a growth in the public payroll that, in his view, has not translated into a real improvement in the quality of life for Dominicans.
I do not believe that what they have not been able to do in six years they will achieve in two. The administration has been characterized by announcements, not by facts and results.
Charlie Mariotti Paz, PLD deputy
Along the same lines, Fuerza del Pueblo congressman José David Báez questioned the credibility of the government’s deadlines. Báez used the Santiago monorail project as an example, whose delivery dates have been rescheduled multiple times, moving from 2024 to 2025 and now projected for 2026, which generates distrust regarding official schedules.
Defense of the ruling party: Results as an endorsement
For his part, the deputy of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), Abelardo Rutinel, addressed the criticisms, asserting that the goal set by the president is completely achievable. The legislator highlighted that the Government has demonstrated consistency in its commitments and that the progress in infrastructure is visible to the citizenry.
- Expansion of the Santo Domingo Metro.
- Construction of underpasses and bridges.
- Execution of aqueducts and ravine sanitation.
- Construction and rehabilitation program for educational centers.
Rutinel emphasized that the opposition’s criticisms are part of their political role and that, contrary to what his adversaries have pointed out, the Executive branch maintains a constant agenda of inaugurations that directly impact the country’s mobility and connectivity.
The presidential goal
The 80% execution target was presented by President Abinader during the weekly accountability session. The Government’s strategic planning prioritizes road infrastructure, public transport, and access to basic services, seeking to close the constitutional term with a legacy of completed works that transform the national infrastructure.
