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Cubalex Provides Legal Tool to Challenge ETECSA's Rate Hike

Tuesday, June 24, 2025 by Madison Pena

Cubalex Provides Legal Tool to Challenge ETECSA's Rate Hike
ETECSA Office (reference image) - Image © Tribuna de La Habana / Ismael Francisco

The recent rate increase announced by the Cuban Telecommunications Company S.A. (ETECSA) has sparked widespread outrage among Cubans, who view the move as unjust amidst a severe economic crisis. In response to public discontent, Cubalex, an advocacy organization, has introduced a legal tool to enable citizens to formally lodge complaints against the state-run company, aiming to demand the reversal of the rate hike.

Through its social media channels, Cubalex has shared a detailed thread explaining how to file a formal complaint with ETECSA using the company's own established mechanisms. This initiative includes a downloadable document that can be filled out with the affected user's personal information, along with a Q&A guide tailored for those without legal expertise.

"What to do about ETECSA's rate increase? Cubalex provides the public with a legal resource to legitimately demand the cancellation of this measure," the organization announced on its X account, distributing the complaint template and comprehensive instructions.

The document can be submitted via ETECSA's official complaints and claims form, available online. Cubalex has also provided legal recommendations to ensure that complaints are valid and not dismissed due to formal errors. They emphasized that this action is part of recognized civic rights, and peaceful protest is a legitimate way to challenge unjust government decisions.

Since ETECSA announced the rate hike in late May, numerous voices on social media, independent media outlets, and academic spaces have fiercely criticized the move. University students, particularly those residing in dormitories, have spoken out against the increased cost of internet access and phone services, which are vital for academic life and family communication.

In various provinces, complaints have also come from users already affected by poor service quality, frequent connection interruptions, and a lack of transparency in billing. The measure has been described as "an insult" and "a provocation" by many internet users, who see ETECSA as an unaccountable monopoly.

With Cubalex's initiative, a concrete tool is now available to channel this widespread discontent. The non-governmental organization, with extensive experience in defending human rights in Cuba, stressed the importance of multiplying complaints to exert institutional pressure. "As citizens, we have the right—and also the responsibility—to protest when an unjust decision directly affects us," Cubalex stated.

The document and guide can be downloaded from their official website and have begun circulating among users both inside and outside the island, who have expressed gratitude for having a peaceful and legitimate way to voice their concerns.

Meanwhile, neither the state company nor the Cuban regime's leaders have offered new statements regarding the widespread rejection of their decision. There have also been no announcements about reviewing or reversing the new rates. However, the public is beginning to organize legally to demand answers.

Frequently Asked Questions about ETECSA's Rate Hike and Legal Challenges

What is Cubalex's role in challenging ETECSA's rate increase?

Cubalex has launched a legal tool to help citizens file formal complaints against ETECSA's rate increase, aiming to reverse the decision.

How can citizens submit a complaint to ETECSA?

Citizens can use Cubalex's downloadable document and instructions to fill out and submit their complaints through ETECSA's official online form.

Why is the rate increase controversial?

The increase is controversial because it comes during a severe economic crisis and has been criticized for making essential communication services unaffordable for many.

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