Once again, the abuses within Cuba's Military Service have come under scrutiny. This time, a video allegedly filmed at an Infantry Unit in San José has surfaced, depicting an officer mistreating a young soldier. The soldier is forced to squat while carrying a weight far too heavy for his physique and likely inadequate for the nutrition provided during his time in the army.
"Those of us who have experienced Military Service know this is just a glimpse of the real horror," remarked Magdiel Jorge Castro, a journalist from CiberCuba, in a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) profile. The video, showcasing harassment and mistreatment, has incited anger across social media, prompting a call for public assistance to identify the officer involved in this latest episode of abuse within Cuba's Mandatory Military Service. As the saying goes, nothing remains hidden, and an anonymous user has identified the officer.
The individual explained that they encountered this officer during their time at Tapaste and later in San José. "He was a notorious bully, always testing strength and abusing soldiers. I just can't recall his name," the user stated.
Public Figures Speak Out Against Military Abuse
Among those raising their voices against the mistreatment shown in the video is comedian Andy Váquez. On Instagram, he warned that the young recruit could have been seriously injured or killed after being kicked and pushed backward. In his view, such abuses are linked to the frequent suicides within the Military Service. "Let's help identify this abusive individual. Someone must know him. Let's make him famous," the comedian urged, referring to the officer abusing his power.
The footage allegedly captured in San José adds to the extensive list of injustices commonly occurring during this compulsory military training phase imposed on young Cubans after completing their pre-university education. Those who have undergone it attest that what is depicted in this video is a typical punishment.
Rising Concerns Over Military Service Practices
Given these circumstances, it's unsurprising that suicides, accidents, and desertions among young Cubans of military age are on the rise. Just last May, two recruits died after being hit by a bus in the Zona Especial de Desarrollo del Mariel (ZEDM) in Artemisa province. Despite numerous reports, official sources remained silent about the incident.
Additionally, in May, a young Cuban named Léster Álvarez reportedly took his own life while serving in the Military at Ariza prison in Cienfuegos province. News of his death deeply affected his community and loved ones.
One of the most publicized cases involved the death of Adrián Rodriguez García, a 19-year-old who passed away while fulfilling his Military Service. Despite completing the mandatory two years, he was kept at the Unit until the end of the year. His mother visited him during the day, only to receive a call that night informing her that her son had died after being hit by a car. The Unit claimed he had escaped, and the unlicensed driver received only five years and eight months in prison. No military personnel were investigated in the judicial process.
Growing Opposition to Mandatory Military Service
Opposition to the Military Service in Cuba has been gaining momentum, especially after the Matanzas supertanker base fire. On August 5, 2022, lightning struck a crude oil tank, triggering a massive fire that spread to four fuel tanks over several days. The industrial disaster in Matanzas resulted in 17 deaths, over a hundred injuries, and substantial material losses. Among the deceased were four recruits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Military Service in Cuba
What sparked the outrage on social media about Cuba's Military Service?
A video showing an officer mistreating a young soldier in Cuba's Military Service sparked outrage. The footage highlighted the abuse and harsh conditions faced by recruits.
Who are some public figures speaking out against military abuse in Cuba?
Comedian Andy Váquez is among those who have spoken out against the abuse. He emphasized the potential for serious injuries and linked such abuses to suicides in the Military Service.
What are some recent incidents highlighting the issues in Cuba's Military Service?
Recent incidents include the deaths of two recruits in Artemisa province and the suicide of Léster Álvarez in Cienfuegos. These cases underscore the dangerous conditions within the Military Service.