Back to work after deadly general strike in Dominican Republic

Thursday, November 13, 2003

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AFP): Dominicans were back at work Wednesday after a violent 24-hour general strike against the economic policies of President Hipolito Mejia, in which at least eight people were killed.

Violence became so widespread that one of the main strike leaders, Ramon Perez Figuereo, called on Dominicans late Tuesday to stay home and to go to work as normal on Wednesday.

By mid-day Wednesday there was no official toll of dead and wounded, though according to labor and hospital reports seven civilians and police officer were killed.

Protesters clashed with soldiers and riot police in several Dominican cities, including the capital, on Tuesday.

Protesters were demanding lower gasoline prices, better state hospitals, and an end to foreign debt payments and agreements with the International Monetary Fund.

Transport ground almost to a halt, and most businesses closed their doors.

The strike, which organizers said was a major success, took a violent turn when the army moved out in force onto streets of the country's main cities.

This Caribbean nation of eight million is a major tourist destination for holidaymakers from Europe and North America.

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