State-affiliated journalist Oliver Zamora Oria has acquired a modern car through MCV Comercial S.A. The vehicle in question is a Bestune T55, a Chinese-made model equipped with features that most Cubans can only admire from afar. Mercedes-Benz's Havana branch publicized the purchase on their Facebook page, noting that "the best maintenance conditions, availability, and spare parts" were factors in Zamora's decision to buy from them.
After making the purchase, Zamora expressed his gratitude publicly, stating that owning the car "is not just a dream, but a necessity." He also mentioned that he plans to continue utilizing the company's maintenance services.
What Sets the FAW Bestune T55 Apart?
The Bestune T55 is a compact SUV manufactured by the Chinese brand FAW. It boasts a sleek and modern design, turbocharged engine, automatic transmission, and a touchscreen entertainment system. Additional features include climate control, a reverse camera, parking sensors, and advanced road assistance technology. Zamora's model is black, a color heavily promoted by MCV Comercial S.A. in Cuba, and is priced at $26,845 on the island.
In other countries, this vehicle competes with well-known brands like Hyundai and Kia. However, in Cuba, due to its price and features, it has become a symbol of exclusivity.
Luxury Reserved for a Select Few
MCV Comercial S.A.'s catalog ranges from Mercedes-Benz cars priced over $191,000 to Chinese vehicles like the DFSK Glory 330, which costs more than $16,000. The company's purchasing process includes consultancy, contracts, and post-sale services, all designed for those who can afford them.
While purchasing a car in Cuba is not illegal, Zamora's acquisition has sparked controversy. As a correspondent for RT in Havana, he may be able to justify his income in foreign currency. However, the debate intensified when he used national television to criticize those allegedly "profiting from the Cuban people's misfortunes."
In his commentary on Canal Caribe, Zamora dismissed U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Mike Hammer's remarks that "the Cuban revolution has failed," blaming Washington for the island's troubles without acknowledging any responsibility of the regime in the current crisis. His narrative, lacking impartiality, reinforced the government's storyline. Meanwhile, his new car traverses broken streets where most pedestrians can only watch from the sidewalk, with little hope of accessing even basic public transportation.
Privileges for Regime Loyalists
Zamora frequently appears on national television, consistently echoing the regime's rhetoric. His new car seems to be a reward for his unwavering loyalty. He's not the only public figure eyeing these Chinese cars in Cuba. Haila María Mompié was captivated by a red Bestune she saw at the International Transportation and Logistics Fair. Broadcaster Evyan Guerra showed interest, and presenter Héctor Villar even promoted a Mercedes-Benz from Madrid.
Zamora's purchase has drawn criticism for its stark contrast with the Cuban reality. The island is enduring one of its worst economic crises, with frequent blackouts, rampant inflation, food shortages, and unprecedented emigration. Yet, regime spokespeople enjoy privileges unimaginable to the average citizen. A modern car with air conditioning, guaranteed fuel, and spare parts remains "a dream" reserved for a select few Cubans.
Understanding the Controversy of Car Purchases in Cuba
Why has Oliver Zamora's car purchase sparked controversy?
Oliver Zamora's car purchase has sparked controversy due to the stark contrast between his acquisition of a luxury vehicle and the harsh economic realities faced by the majority of Cubans, who struggle with shortages and financial instability.
What makes the Bestune T55 a symbol of exclusivity in Cuba?
The Bestune T55 is seen as a symbol of exclusivity in Cuba because of its high price and advanced features, which are accessible to only a small segment of the population, contrasting sharply with the average Cuban's financial means.