Dominican bishops call for swift adoption of new Penal Code

Bishop Manuel Ruiz of the Stella Mari Diocese urged the Dominican Congress to approve the pending Penal Code without further delay, warning that “justice cannot continue without claws” to confront crime. He said the legislation need not be perfect, but must be enacted so authorities can effectively prosecute offenses, and any needed reforms can be added later.

Bishop Santiago Rodríguez of San Pedro de Macorís linked the rise in violence, hatred and selfishness to a loss of spiritual values, urging that “the greatest act of charity is teaching someone to love God, which will also teach them to love their neighbor.” He called for education in the faith as a means to build a more respectful and solidary society during the patron saint festivities.

Both bishops spoke during the Santiago Apóstol celebrations, emphasizing that legal and moral reforms are essential for the country’s safety and social cohesion.