Cuban President Comments on Controversial Statements by Labor Minister Regarding Begging in Cuba

President Miguel Díaz-Canel has weighed in on the controversial remarks made by the Minister of Labor and Social Security, Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera, who recently denied the existence of beggars in Cuba and criticized those seeking food or alms on the streets. In a post early Tuesday—shared on both X and Facebook—Díaz-Canel did not mention the minister by name, but it was clear he was addressing her statements, which have sparked widespread outrage among Cubans across the political spectrum.

Díaz-Canel described the approach to vulnerability during the Assembly Commissions as "highly questionable," stating, "The Revolution must not leave anyone behind; that is our motto, our militant responsibility." He further noted that the Assembly Commissions are discussing "actions to overcome the challenging times the country is facing," emphasizing that "many depend on collective effort, intelligence, and creativity."

To dispel any doubts that Díaz-Canel's remarks were directed at the minister, official journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso later confirmed: "Regarding sensitivity and its lack. On the scant empathy in addressing an issue that requires much solidarity. There is a Cuba with extremely difficult realities that must be addressed from a humanitarian standpoint first. President Díaz-Canel shares his views on Monday's debate," Alonso wrote, sharing the president's words on Facebook.

Public Reactions to Díaz-Canel's Statement

Many perceive Díaz-Canel's remarks as an attempt to distance himself without assuming political responsibility. Critics argue that his message is not a straightforward critique but rather an exercise in political ambiguity. The absence of explicit names, immediate consequences, and the general tone of his post are seen as a maneuver to quell discontent without committing to real action.

There was neither a direct condemnation of the minister nor an acknowledgment of the structural problems that allowed her discourse, just a generic phrase about the "lack of sensitivity," which—without concrete actions—is viewed as political window dressing.

Far from calming the unrest caused by Feitó's statements, Díaz-Canel's words have ignited another wave of reactions, highlighting the deep-seated discontent within vast sectors of Cuban society. Most comments on social media express disappointment, indignation, and distrust toward both the minister and the political system that supports her.

While some appreciate the president addressing the lack of sensitivity, many find it insufficient, belated, and evasive. Calls for the minister's dismissal and questions about the complicit silence of the attending deputies are common. Others criticize the institutional abandonment, extreme poverty, and disconnect between the leadership and the people's reality.

Growing Public Discontent

Comments such as "They say the Revolution cannot leave anyone behind. But it already has. And it continues to do so," "No more rhetoric is needed. Truth, justice, and respect are needed," or "The minister is no longer needed in her position," encapsulate the general sentiment of a frustrated citizenry. Some remarks sarcastically note, "The revolution advances so quickly it left 11 million behind," or directly challenge the president with statements like "The people are worn out, and you only talk about sensitivity."

Even voices self-identifying as supportive of the revolutionary process offer sharp criticism: "I am a revolutionary, and it breaks my heart to see beggars rummaging through garbage 67 years after the Revolution." Calls to abandon euphemisms like "vulnerability" for what is simply "poverty" or "misery" are also on the rise.

Overall, the public sentiment reflects an increasing disconnect between the official narrative and the everyday experiences of much of the population. Meanwhile, on social media, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security has remained silent on the matter, posting unrelated information while ignoring the topic that is affecting millions of Cubans. The minister in question has yet to comment. However, following Díaz-Canel's post, many anticipate that her dismissal may be forthcoming.