The leader of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel, sparked a storm of reactions on social media after claiming that "Cuba is not a dictatorship and is more democratic than the United States." This statement, shared by CiberCuba along with a video of the interview, drew over 4,500 responses from Cubans both on and off the island in less than a day, showcasing a widespread critical, indignant, and even mocking consensus.
The most shared comment bluntly stated, "Calling the U.S. a dictatorship while you repress, censor, and imprison for opinions... that's the height of hypocrisy," directly condemning what many perceive as blatant manipulation. Another user sarcastically remarked, "How shameless... in Cuba, you can't think differently without risking years in prison." Several pointed to the dangerous makeshift rafts used to flee, questioning how there can be democracy when people risk their lives to leave. One user encapsulated this sentiment by asking, "Then why do Cubans risk their lives... to escape?"—arguing that the mass exodus is evidence enough of repression.
Díaz-Canel's words were repeatedly labeled as "lies" and "cynicism." A commentator noted, "Lying is his greatest skill. Cuba is a textbook dictatorship." Another stated, "It's a dictatorship because the people didn’t choose you. You don’t allow people to express what they truly feel," denouncing the authoritarian nature of the regime. Many summarized, "Cuba has been a dictatorship since 1959, a system of terror."
Calls for Change and Democratic Elections
One frequent complaint was the absence of competitive and multiparty elections. An online user questioned, "Why don’t they hold free multiparty elections, so the people can genuinely choose their president?" Another challenged, "Well then, hold elections and prove otherwise." For many, the lack of political alternation and the appointment of the president "by decree" contradicted any claims of democracy, with one user lamenting the "shameful political appointments."
The topic of repression was also central: "Release all the innocent prisoners who only asked for what we all want. Freedom for Cuba." Another user asked, "What about the political prisoners? Freedom of press? Then release the political prisoners... that's dictatorship." The protests in 2021 and recent events were recalled as tangible evidence.
International Comparisons and Public Outcry
The assertion that Cuba is "more democratic than the U.S." met with both backlash and biting humor. One user humorously noted, "The difference is Americans aren’t fleeing on rafts to die at sea." Another skeptically remarked, "In a country without elections, they claim it's a democracy," while another quipped, "Hahaha... more banana republic than democratic."
References to censorship, repression of public criticism, social pressure, and inequality between elites and the people were common. "So many innocent lives lost and these scoundrels... have destroyed families," wrote an outraged user. Another pointed out, "Journalists need permission to express opinions; people are jailed for protesting... that's not democracy." Emphasizing, "In Cuba, you can't protest peacefully... that's a dictatorship."
The mocking tone was prevalent: "This guy makes me laugh... exalting cynicism"; "So true that there's free expression... food rots everywhere"; "Cuba is a comedy show." The visceral rejection was clear: "Clown," "Cynic" were common epithets.
Voices of Hope and Demands for Action
Amidst the criticism, there were calls to action: "Take to the streets with courage and ask the people... without cars or guards"; "Call for free elections monitored by international organizations." Messages of religious solidarity and hope also emerged: "May God perform a miracle for our beautiful island."
The majority of reactions pointed to widespread fatigue: 66 years without real change is a heavy burden. "No wonder Cuba is where it is... 66 years of the same party without opposition"; "We live in a country in ruins, misery, and blackouts..." Many responded with a mix of weariness and determination.
In conclusion, Díaz-Canel's statements unleashed almost unanimous disapproval among the comments on CiberCuba, with Cubans describing the country's reality as dictatorial, highlighting the lack of genuine elections, political repression, material shortages, and the impossibility of protest. The comparison with the U.S. provoked ridicule and sarcasm, and the demand for freedom of expression and the release of political prisoners became a constant refrain. Faced with what they perceive as official cynicism, the majority express indignation, skepticism, and a strong desire for political and social change.
Understanding the Cuban Political Landscape
Why did Díaz-Canel's statements about democracy in Cuba spark such reactions?
His comments were perceived as a stark contradiction to the experiences of many Cubans, who see the regime as repressive and lacking genuine democratic processes like free elections and freedom of expression.
What are some criticisms regarding democracy in Cuba?
Critics highlight the absence of competitive multiparty elections, censorship, political repression, and the appointment of leaders without public choice as evidence of a lack of democracy.
How do Cubans view the comparison between Cuba and the United States in terms of democracy?
Many Cubans reacted with skepticism and humor, arguing that the freedoms and democratic structures in the U.S. starkly contrast with the political and social realities in Cuba.