By Mariluz Florian
Santo Domingo. President Luis Abinader began 2026 with a series of changes in his cabinet, including dismissals, rotations, and new appointments in various state institutions. However, several key positions remain vacant, awaiting the Executive Branch’s appointment of replacements.
One of the most recent cases is that of the Technological Institute of the Americas (ITLA). Through decree 39-26, issued last Friday, President Abinader dismissed Rafael Feliz García as director general of the institution, and no replacement has yet been announced.
Feliz García’s departure occurred through direct dismissal, after allegations surfaced regarding supposed irregular deductions applied to the salaries of ITLA employees, a situation that generated questions and pressure on the institution’s administration.
To date, the Government has not reported whether an interim director has been appointed or when the new head of ITLA will be announced.
Vacancy at the Dominican Consulate in Miami
Another position that remains without a replacement is that of Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Miami, after Geanilda Vásquez was appointed as coordinator of the Social Policy Cabinet, replacing Tony Peña Guaba.
Vásquez’s appointment was made through Decree 2-26, issued by the Executive Branch. As of now, no announcement has been made regarding who will fill the diplomatic post she held in the United States.
Decree 2-26 also included changes in the Ministries of Agriculture and Women, as well as changes in the General Directorate of Internal Taxes (DGII), as part of the process of adjustments in the government structure initiated by President Abinader at the beginning of the new year.
On January 8, the Minister of the Presidency, José Ignacio Paliza, assured that changes will continue to occur in the government, which anticipates new appointments, dismissals or reassignments of functions in the coming days.
