Paliza steps down as PRM leader, calls for party unity
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- José Ignacio Paliza concluded eight years as president of the Dominican Revolutionary Modern Party (PRM), urging unity and prioritizing the collective project over individual ambitions.
- Paliza highlighted the party's electoral victories in 2024, including winning 80% of municipalities and securing President Luis Abinader's re-election, attributing success to unified grassroots efforts.
- He emphasized that political positions are temporary and belong to the party, not individuals, and pledged to continue serving the PRM in any capacity.
José Ignacio Paliza has stepped down as president of the Dominican Revolutionary Modern Party (PRM), concluding eight years at the helm with a strong call for unity and institutional strength. In a statement titled "Beyond Victories: A United PRM!", Paliza expressed satisfaction in leaving the party more robust and prepared for future political challenges.
If I had to summarize these eight years in one word, the precise word would be: unity.
His departure follows the recent internal convention where Luis Abinader was chosen to lead the organization. Paliza asserted that the outgoing leadership's greatest achievement was maintaining the cohesion of a party known for its diverse factions and leaders. "If I had to summarize these eight years in one word, the precise word would be: unity," he stated, noting that while internal differences existed, they were managed without causing fractures.
Reflecting on the 2024 elections, Paliza pointed to the PRM's significant successes: capturing 80% of municipal governments, securing three-quarters of legislative representation, and achieving President Abinader's re-election with an increased majority. He attributed these wins to diligent territorial work and the unified commitment of party members.
Positions never belong to people. People belong, temporarily, to positions.
Paliza also addressed the nature of political power, cautioning against confusing temporary responsibilities with personal privileges. "Positions never belong to people. People belong, temporarily, to positions," he declared. He stressed that institutions strengthen when leaders recognize that no single individual is indispensable. While stepping down from the presidency, Paliza affirmed his continued dedication to the PRM, stating, "I will continue to serve wherever my party needs me, today, tomorrow, and always."
I will continue to serve wherever my party needs me, today, tomorrow, and always.
Originally published by Diario Libre in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.