Dominican Republic President Abinader re-elected to 2nd term

Dominican Republic re-elects President Abinader, known for anti-corruption stance and tough policies on Haitian migration

Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader was re-elected on May 19 for another four-year term, an endorsement of his handling of the economy and tough policies toward migration from Haiti.

The two nations share the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, but the much more prosperous Dominican Republic stands in stark contrast to its poverty and gang violence-plagued neighbor.

The volatility across the border has been a key issue in the election campaign, but Mr. Abinader, 56, also boasted success in managing the economy and the Covid-19 pandemic.

As the number of ballots counted passed 21%, his main rival, former president Leonel Fernandez, conceded defeat and congratulated Mr. Abinader.

“I am and will be the president of all Dominicans,” Mr. Abinader said in a speech before hundreds of supporters at his campaign Headquarters in the capital Santo Domingo.

“The people have expressed themselves clearly... I accept the trust I have received and the obligation not to disappoint,” Mr. Abinader said shortly after his two top rivals, including Mr. Fernandez, threw in the towel.