The Christian Dialogue and Representation Council hailed the long-awaited enactment of the Dominican Republic’s new Penal Codd as “an act of institutional maturity and commitment to justice,” marking a historic legislative milestone after years of political deadlock.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday (Aug. 4), Council President Bishop Reynaldo Franco Aquino read a statement applauding the updated code’s passage and commending the executive branch for its leadership, according to El Nuevo Diario. The Council — which includes bishops, church councils, pastors, and Christian lawmakers — called the reform a crucial step toward strengthening justice and protecting society’s most vulnerable. It now specifically includes crimes such as femicide, contract killing, corruption, and child abuse in the new code.
According to the statement: “The new Penal Code represents a fundamental legal advancement in addressing current challenges and protecting the most vulnerable, such as children, women, and families,” a sentiment already expressed previously by Pastor Lorenzo Mota King, a member of the Council, in Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
The Council also praised the leadership of President Luis Abinader, stating that his decision to break the deadlock on an issue that had been stalled for years demonstrates political will and forward-looking vision. It also acknowledged the support of more than 100 organizations and 12,000 citizens who backed the process.
Finally, in its role as the voice of the evangelical Christian community, the Council called for continued prayer and active participation in civic life, reaffirming its commitment to remain an engaged social actor in support of justice and national values.
“The country was divided, but a large majority—an overwhelming majority—wanted this code to be approved with the characteristics it has,” said Pastor Mota King during the press conference.
Meanwhile, the Evidencias Digital portal published an article the same day describing the Council’s statement as a gesture of ethical commitment and institutional maturity.
It said that the Council praised the legislative effort and highlighted the inclusion of updated legal definitions, describing the enactment as a milestone that renews the legitimacy of the Dominican Republic’s judicial system.
Originally published on Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
