During the central event on July 26 in Ciego de Ávila, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz declared that the nation's dignity is non-negotiable. Despite living in a country where dissent is suppressed and nearly 1,000 political prisoners are held, Marrero emphasized his commitment to a "just and democratic" nation.
His speech was filled with the typical rhetoric of the regime's propaganda, offering little new insight. Marrero acknowledged the severe economic crisis faced by Cubans, referencing his visits to various locations in Ciego de Ávila. Yet, he attempted to rally support by highlighting the enthusiasm and joy of the working communities.
The prime minister invoked the legacy of the late dictator, citing his ability to "turn setbacks into victories," as the regime prepares to celebrate the centennial of his birth this year. Marrero claimed that by 2026, the government will prioritize increasing national production, securing foreign currency, restoring the energy system, and strengthening the socialist state enterprise to address issues affecting the population's well-being, although he failed to explain how these goals would be achieved.
The event commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the Moncada Barracks assault, once the regime's most significant celebration, began around 5 a.m. Attendees included the elderly Raúl Castro, along with Ramiro Valdés and José Ramón Machado Ventura. Prior to the main event, a cultural gala took place, featuring appearances by Lis Cuesta, wife of President Díaz-Canel, and Yadira Ramírez Morera, partner of Prime Minister Marrero Cruz, both appearing cheerful and at ease.
Key Issues in Cuba's Current Political Landscape
What did Manuel Marrero Cruz emphasize in his July 26 speech?
In his speech, Manuel Marrero Cruz emphasized that Cuba's national dignity is non-negotiable, and he expressed a commitment to maintaining a just and democratic nation despite the current political and economic challenges.
How did Marrero address Cuba's economic crisis in his speech?
Marrero acknowledged the economic crisis but focused on the enthusiasm and joy of working communities, citing the need to prioritize national production, foreign currency acquisition, energy system recovery, and strengthening the socialist state enterprise by 2026, without providing specific methods for achieving these goals.
Who were some of the notable attendees at the July 26 event?
Notable attendees included Raúl Castro, Ramiro Valdés, José Ramón Machado Ventura, Lis Cuesta, and Yadira Ramírez Morera, who were seen at the event appearing cheerful and relaxed.