Indignation in the Dominican Republic over the freedom of corrupt individuals and the lack of real justice.

The recent decision to release figures like Díaz Rúa and Rondón, who have been linked to acts of corruption, has unleashed a wave of indignation in Dominican society. This situation has been perceived as a mockery of the collective effort of thousands of citizens who, for three years, have cried out for justice and the return of ill-gotten goods. Impunity seems to have become institutionalized, and popular discontent grows in rhythm with this perception of injustice. The fact that those responsible for corruption in the country are not only free but also enjoying a comfortable life raises serious questions about the functioning of the judicial system. The betrayal by certain sectors within the Green Movement, who have chosen to ally with the PRM and reduce corruption to a single party, has worsened the situation. As a consequence, the fight for justice has become fragmented, and many wonder whether the root problem is truly being addressed or if convenient choices are being made about who is denounced. The reality of the Dominican institutional system is complicated. A legal framework that, in theory, should protect citizens is perceived as a wall that favors the powerful. A judicial system that, instead of being a bastion of justice, has become a shield for those with the money and influence necessary to evade the consequences of their actions. This is a conclusion that many Dominicans have come to share. The implications of this impunity are devastating. Corruption not only affects the individuals denied justice, but it also undermines trust in institutions. The people have witnessed how prisons, rather than being a place of fair punishment, have become a space reserved for the most disadvantaged. In contrast, the elites continue to enjoy their privileges without being held accountable for their actions. The role of President Abinader and the institutions surrounding him cannot be overlooked in this discussion. The government's connection with corrupt businessmen and complicity with practices that harm the environment reveal a troubling pattern. Abinader has not only avoided holding members of his party accountable in corruption scandals but has also facilitated an environment where such practices can flourish without fear of repercussions. The control that the president exerts over the Judicial Council and other public power entities has raised criticisms about the genuineness of his reform proposals. The idea of reforming the Public Ministry under his influence raises doubts about whether a real change is being sought or if it is a strategy to perpetuate a system that benefits him and his allies. Trust in a new independent prosecutor seems like an illusion in a context where power is so concentrated. Citizens who have fought for the independence of institutions and accountability feel betrayed. Frustration intensifies when observing that the proposed solutions do not address the structural problems that have allowed corruption to take root in the social fabric of the country. The general perception is that any attempt at reform is merely a facade to divert attention and maintain old practices. The issue of corruption in the Dominican Republic is more than just a current topic; it is a matter that affects the quality of life of its citizens. A state considered democratic should guarantee justice, but recent actions point to a prioritization of protecting the elites instead. This phenomenon is not just a local problem but has repercussions that can extend to international trust in the country. In this context, the call for radical change becomes urgent. Citizens demand a system that truly promotes justice and transparency, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their status, is held accountable for their actions. Many believe that to achieve a fairer country, it is necessary to abolish the current institutional order and build a new one that serves the people. The struggle for justice in the Dominican Republic continues to be a complex and multifaceted battle. The path toward meaningful change is fraught with obstacles, but hope has not been lost. The increasingly united voice of the people may be the necessary catalyst to drive reforms that truly transform the political and social landscape of the country. The question that remains is whether the institutions will be willing to listen and respond to that cry for justice.