The decision followed the devastation caused by Hurricane Matthew, which struck the country on October 4, killing hundreds. With estimates of casualties and property damage still being revised upwards, it is unclear when the electoral authorities will be in a position to reschedule the much-delayed elections.
The United States will push for elections to be rescheduled quickly, as it was opposed to the rerun in the first place.
However, holding elections too quickly would be controversial, as it would risk disenfranchising displaced voters.
Popular anger at the devastation will be ultimately channelled into frustration with the political paralysis.
The crisis could drive up attempted migration to the Dominican Republic and the United States.
