Cuban actor Frank Andrés Mora took to social media to voice his outrage over the dire circumstances Cubans face due to prolonged power outages, with some areas experiencing blackouts exceeding 20 hours daily. In a video shared on his Instagram account, Mora fiercely criticized the Cuban government, blaming them for the severe energy crisis and the escalating poverty on the island.
"I was in San Nicolás de Bari and Cienfuegos. Those people have no life. A sack of coal costs 1,700 pesos. Why should a Cuban be cooking with a sack of coal? You all are shameless," Mora expressed, clearly frustrated with the authorities. He also condemned the official reports on the energy situation in the country: "You have to be bold to report what you do on the News or in those briefings."
Unbearable Reality for Millions
Mora's statements have sparked a wave of reactions on social media. Many have praised his courage for articulating the accumulated pain of millions of Cubans who have been suffering from the energy crisis, especially worsening in recent months. Comments such as "You've expressed the pain of many Cubans," "It's the harsh reality," and "This is inhumane; it can't go on" echoed among the numerous responses to his post.
Users agreed that the population is living under unbearable conditions, resorting to cooking with coal or wood, and without hope for improvement. Others applauded the actor's bravery, noting that his message encapsulates the sentiments of a nation left in darkness and neglected. Some accused the government of manipulating statistics and avoiding power cuts in Havana to prevent social unrest in the capital. However, power outages have recently begun in several Havana municipalities as well.
A Growing Social Pressure Cooker
Mora's intervention is not an isolated incident. It reflects a widespread discontent, a social pressure cooker fueled by the collapse of basic services, rampant inflation, food and transportation shortages, and the feeling that "life in Cuba is no longer viable." The actor's indignation echoes that of thousands of citizens, both within and outside the country, who denounce how the regime continues to prioritize its political stability over the welfare of the Cuban people.
"Cuba is dying every day," lamented one netizen who appreciated Mora's message, which continues to garner support.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is largely attributed to outdated infrastructure, lack of investment in the energy sector, and economic mismanagement by the government, leading to frequent and prolonged blackouts.
How are Cubans coping with the power outages?
Many Cubans are resorting to cooking with coal or wood due to the unreliable electricity supply. This situation is exacerbated by the high cost of alternative fuels like coal.
What are the social implications of the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis contributes to a broader sense of frustration and hopelessness among Cubans, as it impacts daily life, including food preparation and access to essential services, leading to a growing demand for change.