Cuban reggaeton artist Jorge Junior, the frontman of the group Los 4, has once again taken to social media to voice his dissatisfaction with the country's ongoing issues. This time, he has turned his attention to the persistent and widespread blackouts affecting millions of citizens. In a Facebook post, accompanied by an image of himself holding a decorative figure in what appears to be his home, the artist directed a pointed critique at the authorities responsible for the island's electrical system.
“Coño renté or whatever your name is, I know we have oil problems, that we're blocked, and all that. But asere, what I don't find logical or correct is that you cut it off five times a day without warning. Man, I have a 9-month-old daughter and recording equipment that's worth a fortune. At least give me a heads-up, so I can be prepared, or are you just trying to ruin my equipment?” he wrote, visibly frustrated.
His complaint highlights the impact of power cuts not only on his family life but also on his professional work. The mention of his young daughter and expensive technical gear underscores a concern that extends beyond mere inconvenience: the constant uncertainty faced by Cubans amidst a seemingly unsolvable energy crisis.
Public Backlash and Accusations
However, his post ignited a wave of criticism from users who accused him of defending the regime or downplaying the Cuban government's responsibility. Among the notable comments were: “You have the chance to live in freedom and chose your communism, so now deal with it… and that's nothing, brace yourself for what's coming” or “Saying it's a blockade, how crazy!”
Another user chimed in: “Man, if you're going to complain, go all out, what blockade are you talking about? You've traveled every corner of this country, where there's truly no blockade or oil shortage… You really missed the mark there, bro. Did you see how bad it sounds? This is how all Cubans feel, man; it's just that they hit you where it hurts.”
A follower added, “Jorgito, Cuba has never been blocked. It was only a matter of time before we realized all the lies we've been told for years. But well, there are still Cubans who think there's a blockade. Yes, there's a blockade, but it's internal.”
Worsening Electrical Crisis
Jorge Junior's complaint comes amid one of the worst electrical crises the island has experienced in recent years. Blackouts in some provinces stretch over 24 hours, and in Havana, service is limited to just a few hours during the early morning. According to the authorities, the critical situation is expected to persist throughout the summer.
The Cuban government has squarely blamed the United States for the energy crisis. President Miguel Díaz-Canel recently acknowledged the dire state of the national electricity grid, while the Deputy Minister of Energy and Mines reiterated that the “blockade” is responsible for most of the blackouts.
Jorge Junior joins a growing list of public figures, both inside and outside Cuba, who are denouncing the critical state of the island's electrical system. However, his ambiguous stance on the blockade has provoked strong backlash from part of his audience.
FAQs on Cuba's Energy Crisis and Public Reaction
What is causing the blackouts in Cuba?
The Cuban government attributes the blackouts to the U.S. embargo, oil shortages, and issues within the national electrical grid. However, critics argue that the real problem is internal mismanagement and inefficiency.
How are public figures responding to the Cuban energy crisis?
Many public figures, including Jorge Junior, are using their platforms to highlight the severity of the crisis. While some criticize the regime, others express frustration with the broader circumstances causing the blackouts.
Why did Jorge Junior face backlash for his comments?
Jorge Junior faced criticism because his comments seemed to partially echo the regime's narrative of blaming the U.S. embargo, which many believe ignores the internal issues within Cuba that contribute to the crisis.