The former professor at the University of Havana and economist, Oscar Fernández, has expressed his concerns over ETECSA's recent rate hike, describing it as increasingly resembling "a plan to annihilate the nation." On Facebook, Fernández, who has transitioned into a small business owner, remarked that such a drastic increase is unimaginable for any government accountable to its voters.
"A government that truly represents its people, understanding their struggles, would never endorse a measure like this, especially in such a manner," explained Fernández, who operates a family business in Havana selling dehydrated goods. He emphasized that without transforming the underlying economic model and productive mechanisms, recovery is unattainable. "Relying solely on rent-seeking practices, survival seems impossible. This feels more and more like a plan to annihilate the nation," he concluded.
On Friday, ETECSA imposed a cap on Cuban peso (CUP) recharges at a maximum of 360 over a 30-day period. This decision forces customers to purchase larger data packages in U.S. dollars (USD) or at exorbitant CUP prices, sparking criticism for excluding those without access to foreign currency.
Cubans lacking access to dollars and unable to afford an additional 3GB for over 3,000 CUP are restricted to a 6GB package for 360 CUP per month, insufficient for daily internet needs. This exacerbates inequality and limits connectivity for a significant portion of the population. The measure has incited widespread outrage, drawing criticism even from within the ruling party.
On Saturday, the Federation of University Students (FEU) from various faculties of the University of Havana and the Higher Institute of International Relations (ISRI) issued a joint statement openly opposing the new rates. In a rare critical stance for an organization typically aligned with the regime since the "revolution," the students argued that ETECSA's so-called "rate hike" infringes on the fundamental rights to information, education, and communication, which are essential for their academic development.
Despite the backlash, ETECSA officials remain firm, asserting that they hear and consider public opinions but uphold the necessity of the rate increase.
Understanding ETECSA's Controversial Rate Increase
What are the new limitations imposed by ETECSA on Cuban peso recharges?
ETECSA has limited Cuban peso (CUP) recharges to a maximum of 360 over a 30-day period, encouraging users to buy larger data packages in U.S. dollars or at higher CUP costs.
Why has ETECSA's rate hike sparked widespread criticism?
The rate increase has been criticized for excluding those without access to foreign currency and making internet access unaffordable for many, deepening inequality and limiting connectivity.
How have student organizations reacted to the ETECSA rate hike?
The Federation of University Students (FEU) and the Higher Institute of International Relations (ISRI) have issued a joint statement opposing the rate hike, arguing it restricts essential rights to information, education, and communication.