Dominican Republic JCE faces scrutiny over travel costs and poll regulations

The Junta Central Electoral (JCE) in the Dominican Republic is facing scrutiny over several administrative and regulatory issues. The institution has defended its international missions following reports that over RD$32 million was spent on airfare and per diems for 71 official trips. The JCE clarified that these missions, including cybersecurity training in Spain, are essential for institutional capacity and managing the vote of citizens living abroad.

Simultaneously, the JCE is embroiled in a legal debate regarding Resolution 14-2026, which prohibits the publication of electoral polls before the start of the pre-campaign period. Critics and some lawmakers argue this regulation may exceed the JCE's constitutional authority and conflicts with existing electoral laws. This matter is currently under review by constitutional jurisdictions.

In a separate legal development, the Constitutional Court has upheld a ruling by the Superior Electoral Tribunal regarding the distribution of public funds to political parties. The decision establishes new criteria for allocating state contributions and determining the order of names on electoral ballots for 2028. The ruling includes recognized political organizations that may not have participated in the most recent election but maintain legal status.