The recent pricing for international top-ups by the Cuban Telecommunications Company S.A. (ETECSA) has sparked outrage among its users. Many customers are accusing the state-run company of implementing a fraudulent and exploitative exchange rate that values each dollar sent to Cuba at less than 25 Cuban Pesos (CUP). This comes at a time when the informal market exchange rate exceeds 375 CUP per dollar.
Amidst a severe monetary and connectivity crisis exacerbated by ETECSA's price hikes, the company has rolled out new international top-up promotions that mask a worrying reality: it is valuing the dollar at a rate grossly below the informal market rate. This news drew significant backlash from CiberCuba readers, who left over 1,400 comments on the outlet's Facebook page within a day. A dominant theme among these comments was the call to boycott the state monopoly and, by extension, the dictatorship that exerts control over Cuba's dollarized economy through the military-led Grupo de Administración Empresarial S.A. (GAESA).
"Stop funding the dictatorship!" was the resounding cry among commenters, who linked the company's profit-driven motives with those of the regime's ruling class. Many accused the regime of exploiting families with extortionate tariffs and attempting to restrict internet access over the summer, which is expected to further strain the country's energy and food resources, leaving an already weary population even more frustrated with the government of Miguel Díaz-Canel.
The Power of Communication and the Regime's Fear
One comment that generated significant engagement asserted, "It's obvious the dictatorship wants to cut off communication to prevent information from leaving the island." The analogy was drawn to bank heist films: "Cuba is the bank, the dictatorship the hostage-takers, the people the hostages, and those of us abroad are forced to pay the ransom."
Another online user reflected on the influence of free communication, stating, "The power of communication is immense, and the dictatorship knows it. That's why all dictators first ban a free press." A suggested title for the current situation borrowed from George Orwell's satire on totalitarian regimes: "Animal Farm."
Dozens of Cuban exiles expressed their anger and pain over being extorted by a government that has long maintained a hostile stance towards them, promoting division based on political leanings. "Those who pay, call the shots," one user reminded, echoing a growing sentiment among the Cuban diaspora. With a significant migratory exodus depleting the population, the regime's greed is clashing with a newfound awareness among emigrants of their influence and the increasing calls to wield it.
A United Call for Action: No More Support
The regime's reliance on remittances, top-ups, and family visits to Cuba has become a focal point of criticism from Cubans both on and off the island, united in their demand: "Enough of financing a regime that violates our rights, exploits and manipulates us, oppresses and extorts us."
One commenter urged, "Never forget the contempt and mistreatment you faced for wanting to leave. Campaign against feeding the hostage-takers!" Another echoed, "I told my family not to top-up my phone. No to abuse, no to plundering!" This sentiment resonated with many.
Some noted that ETECSA's actions are symptomatic of a broader societal crisis, a point echoed by others who pointed to the myriad causes of popular discontent. "All these calamities are part of the same package and require the same solution, brother," one suggested, implying that Cuba's woes stem from a lack of rights and freedoms.
Others decried the regime's desperation for funds, likening it to "Ali Baba and the forty thieves," and criticized their attempts to limit connectivity to stifle information dissemination. "What needs to happen is for no one to top-up phones in Cuba. It's a huge disrespect and abuse," they argued.
One commenter advocated for a collective sacrifice, stating, "No top-ups, no remittances, no travel, and the results will be immediate. The definitive solution in six months." Another concurred, "That's right, folks. No more flights. No more top-ups. Send money, have them negotiate for balance on the street. But don't give it to the dictatorship." The call to action is clear: resist a tyranny that exploits its citizens, treating them as slaves, while corruption among its leaders becomes increasingly blatant, exacerbating inequality, injustice, and repression.
Understanding the ETECSA Controversy and Its Impact
Why are Cubans upset with ETECSA's pricing?
Cubans are frustrated because ETECSA's pricing values each dollar at under 25 CUP, significantly lower than the informal market rate, which exceeds 375 CUP. This disparity is seen as exploitative and contributes to the economic hardships faced by many.
How does the Cuban government benefit from ETECSA's rates?
ETECSA's rates benefit the government by generating revenue while maintaining control over the dollarized economy through GAESA. This control enables the regime to continue its policies while limiting the financial autonomy of its citizens.
What are some suggested actions against ETECSA's practices?
Many suggest boycotting ETECSA by refusing to send top-ups, remittances, or travel to Cuba, thereby cutting off financial support to the regime and exerting pressure for change.
What broader issues do Cubans link to ETECSA's pricing strategy?
Cubans associate ETECSA's pricing with the regime's broader economic mismanagement and lack of freedoms. Many believe it's part of a systemic problem rooted in the absence of rights and liberties.