The unexpected absence of Mayra Arevich Marín, Cuba's Minister of Communications, from a televised discussion aimed at defending ETECSA's unpopular price hike has stirred interest on social media. This absence led to speculation about her possible removal from office or an attempt to sidestep the political fallout from the heavily criticized decision. Instead, Ernesto Rodríguez Hernández appeared as the interim minister, though no official announcement had been made regarding any changes in the ministry's leadership.
Just a few days earlier, on May 31, Arevich, who formerly served as the head of ETECSA before taking on her current role, had taken to her X account to justify the price increase. She described the hike as "necessary for maintaining telecommunications infrastructure" and assured that "public opinion is being considered." Despite her efforts to explain, discontent continued to grow, even among traditional supporters of the government.
That same weekend, the Federation of University Students (FEU) from various faculties of the University of Havana and the Higher Institute of International Relations issued an unusually critical statement. They claimed that the new tariffs restrict the right to education, information, and communication, significantly hindering their academic development. Additional public reactions followed, including those from official ideologue Ernesto Limia and Israel Rojas, the lead singer of the group Buena Fe, who criticized the new rates for being exclusionary and exacerbating digital inequality.
In this tense environment, Rodríguez's appearance on the Mesa Redonda was seen by many as an attempt by the regime to shield Arevich from political damage. Journalist Alberto Arego took to social media to question, "What happened, and why is Ernesto Rodríguez Hernández being presented as the interim Minister of Communications?"
The answer, however, came from Russia. According to state agency Prensa Latina, Mayra Arevich was in Nizhny Novgorod attending the international fair "Digital Industry of Industrial Russia." There, she met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and discussed projects involving artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and cybersecurity.
This official statement puts an end to rumors about her whereabouts, though it doesn't address the lack of institutional transparency, as her trip was not announced beforehand, nor was her absence explained during the Mesa Redonda. As of now, the Ministry of Communications' website and social media accounts still list Arevich as the acting minister, with no recent updates on her involvement in the Russian event.
Meanwhile, public outrage over ETECSA's new pricing structure continues to mount. The price increase, which includes mobile internet plans costing over 11,000 CUP, has been widely condemned for excluding the poorest sectors of the population and worsening digital inequality. Only those receiving remittances or with access to U.S. dollars can afford packages available in freely convertible currency (MLC).
Implications of ETECSA's Price Hike
Why was the absence of Mayra Arevich Marín significant?
Her absence during a crucial discussion on ETECSA's price hike fueled speculation about her political standing and the government's handling of the situation, highlighting issues of transparency and accountability.
What were the reactions to the new ETECSA tariffs?
The new tariffs sparked widespread criticism from various sectors, including students, ideologues, and artists, for their perceived exclusivity and impact on digital equality.
How does the price increase affect the Cuban population?
The price increase limits access to mobile internet for poorer Cubans, deepening the digital divide and making connectivity affordable only for those with access to foreign currency.