Senator Franklin Romero speaks out on the dismissal of Rafael Feliz at ITLA

Santo Domingo.– Senator Franklin Romero issued a statement this Tuesday regarding the dismissal of Mr. Rafael Feliz from his duties at the Instituto Tecnológico de las Américas (ITLA), setting a position that he described as responsible, balanced and respectful of the constitutional and democratic framework of the Dominican Republic. Romero acknowledged the investigative work carried out by the outstanding communicator Nuria Piera, highlighting that her career has significantly contributed to transparency, accountability, and institutional strengthening, while also affirming that investigative journalism is an essential pillar of any democracy.

Respect for the faculty of the Executive Power

The legislator also expressed respect for the constitutional power of the President of the Republic to appoint and dismiss public officials, noting that it is a legitimate prerogative of the Executive Branch. However, he considered that in this case the disassociation of Rafael Feliz occurred in a hasty manner, without a clear process of investigation and clarification of the facts being previously exhausted.

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"In a state of law, administrative decisions of this nature must be accompanied by prudence, proportionality, and respect for due process," the senator stated.

Presumption of innocence and due process Franklin Romero reaffirmed his conviction in the principle of presumption of innocence, enshrined in the Dominican Constitution, and reiterated that no person should be treated under the presumption of guilt without a prior judicial investigation. In that regard, he maintained that a transparent judicial process must be opened and exhausted, where the facts are investigated and judged in accordance with the law.

"If guilt is determined as a result of the process, let the full weight of the law be applied. But if the opposite occurs, we must ask ourselves who returns the reputation, honor, and morals of a person who has already been deeply affected," he stated.

The senator also highlighted that during his tenure at the head of ITLA, Rafael Feliz made relevant contributions to technical and technological education, especially for the benefit of Dominican youth, an aspect that, according to him, should be considered with objectivity and justice. Finally, Franklin Romero expressed his confidence that the competent authorities will allow the truth to be clarified, that the process will be conducted with transparency, and that the conclusions will be based on proven facts and judicial decisions, not on premature judgments. He reiterated his commitment to institutionalism, justice, truth, and respect for fundamental rights.