The well-known Cuban comedic character "Chequera," brought to life by Mario Sardiñas, has returned to social media, using his Instagram account to depict the harsh reality faced by pensioners in Cuba. In a short video, Chequera is seen holding his pension check and wryly remarks, "Money is like electricity... it comes and goes."
His situation is far from humorous. He recounts spending five days waiting in line at an ATM just to withdraw his 1,600 Cuban peso pension. After purchasing essential items—oil, lollipops, seasoning, and bread—he was left with only 200 pesos, which he already owed for a beer. "The only way to feel close to money in Cuba is to stand near an ATM," he quipped with his signature biting humor.
Personal Struggles and Professional Challenges
Chequera's predicament also underscores a personal struggle. After the cancellation of the comedy show Vivir del Cuento, Sardiñas found himself alone in Cuba while his former colleagues emigrated to the United States. Andy Vázquez, Omar Franco, Wilber Gutiérrez (Chacón), Marlon Pijuán, and most recently Luis Silva (Pánfilo) left the country, leaving a void in both the national comedy scene and Sardiñas' life.
The Broader Crisis Facing Cuban Pensioners
The story of Chequera is one of many as elderly Cubans publicly voice their struggles to collect their pensions each month. Retired journalist Iraida Calzadilla recently shared a photo on Facebook from the sidewalk outside a bank in Zanja, lamenting, "Every month: sitting on the ledge of any bank, to collect whatever amount they decide from my pension, because they don't even give it all," she wrote.
Her post was supported by journalist Yirmara Torres, who expressed sorrow: "She, like many pensioners, lives an odyssey to collect her pension. And that's in Havana... what must it be like for the rest of the island?"
The crisis extends beyond the capital. In May, independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shared images of elderly people sleeping on porches and sidewalks in Santiago de Cuba, trying to access their pensions amidst a banking collapse.
Government's Failed Banking Reforms
Despite government assurances that "there is money," the reality tells a different story: empty ATMs, endless lines, cash shortages, and a banking system failing to provide dignified access to resources that years of work should secure. The attempt to digitize salary and pension payments has been a resounding failure. Across various provinces, seniors face chaos, disorganization, and disrespectful treatment when trying to access their funds. In Matanzas, for instance, reports of shoving and altercations at the Banco de Jovellanos highlight widespread frustration.
Amidst one of the worst economic crises in decades, old age in Cuba has become synonymous with neglect and poverty. What once was a mark of respect—having worked a lifetime—now burdens those who must fight monthly to survive. Chequera's cry is not merely comedic; it is a heart-wrenching indictment of a generation abandoned by their country.
Understanding Cuba's Pension Crisis
What are the main challenges Cuban pensioners face?
Cuban pensioners are struggling with long lines at ATMs, scarcity of cash, and insufficient pensions to cover basic needs. The government's banking reforms have also added to their difficulties, causing chaos and disorganization.
How has the Cuban government responded to the pension crisis?
The Cuban government claims that there is sufficient money, but the reality is marked by empty ATMs and a failing banking system. Their efforts to digitize payments have largely been unsuccessful, exacerbating the problem.