Many believe that the refusal of so many people of the Caribbean Coast to vote is a way of punishing the government for not providing solutions to basic problems confronted by the Atlantic Coast population. Also, it is believed that abstention may have been an act of resistance and rebellions for the lack of respect for national autonomy. Other reasons for the high absention rate are the irregularities found in some voter registration lists, the late handing out of voter identification cards, as well as difficulties with transportation. Another perceived reason for the low voter turnout was the call made by the Council of Elders, made up of 336 elders, to boycott the elections. This same Council of Elders declared that the Caribbean Coast will seek for independence, create a new Executive Government and by July may have their own constitution.
Doctors strike continues with no resolution in sight.
Aleman has promised the doctors a substantive salary increase next year. However, the Labor Minister declared that it is his responsibility to determine if the 400 doctors will receive their salaries. On Saturday, the doctors announced their decision to collect 100,000 signatures to make the deputies in the National Assembly allocate the funds to cover a salary increase. In spite of the adversity and set backs they have faced, the doctors consider one of the greatest achievements to date has been the unity they have achieved around the issue. Worker-owned pharmaceutical company returned to former owners.