SANTO DOMINGO – Public outrage erupted outside the Palace of Justice as dozens of demonstrators mobilized to demand accountability in a massive corruption scandal involving the National Health Insurance (SENASA). The protest coincided with judicial hearings to determine pretrial detention for individuals accused of embezzling over RD$15 billion from the state-run health insurer.
Protesters carried placards calling for transparency and stringent anti-corruption measures, while civil society organizations emphasized that partial recovery of stolen funds would be meaningless without severe legal consequences. Police presence intensified around the courthouse to ensure order during proceedings that have captured national attention due to their implications for public health financing.
The scandal, known as Operation Cobra, centers on former SENASA director Dr. Santiago Hazim and reveals a devastating financial collapse within the institution. According to newly released 2024 financial statements, SENASA’s net worth plummeted from a positive RD$2.9 billion in 2023 to a staggering negative RD$14.5 billion this year—a situation bordering on technical insolvency.
Despite generating RD$75.4 billion in revenue, operating expenses surged to nearly RD$79 billion, resulting in losses exceeding RD$6.2 billion. This deficit was primarily driven by healthcare claim payments totaling RD$56.9 billion, alongside reinsurance and operational costs. With responsibility for providing health coverage to more than 7.6 million citizens, SENASA now faces urgent demands for financial restructuring and enhanced oversight mechanisms to prevent further mismanagement of public resources.