Attention, Bayamo residents! If you were planning to bring apples, buy some new sunglasses, or sport a fresh t-shirt at the upcoming city carnival, you might need to rethink your plans. An officer from the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) has announced on local television that selling apples, sunglasses, and industrial clothing is now prohibited at the Bayamo carnival, scheduled from August 7 to 10.
"We will be paying special attention to public disturbances, such as public misconduct, using obscene language, breaking glass bottles, and the sale of sunglasses, apples, and industrially manufactured clothing," the officer declared during an interview broadcasted by the official CNCTV Granma channel.
The surprising list of "bans" has left many Cubans puzzled. Since when does selling apples or sunglasses pose a threat to public order? What is the rationale behind prohibiting completely harmless items at what is supposed to be a festive event?
As anticipated, the CNCTV report was quickly removed after its release. However, it was too late. Cuban journalist Rolando Nápoles, residing in the United States, managed to capture and share the original video, preserving a testimony that reveals much more than just a communicative blunder; it highlights the regime's obsessive control over every aspect of public life, even the seemingly trivial.
Bayamo's carnival is not the only one taking place amidst an economic and energy crisis. Each region has hosted its "festivities" under curfews, power outages, and absurd restrictions. In every instance, the State attempts to maintain an illusion of normalcy and "popular joy" while tightening the screws of social control.
However, the situation in Bayamo reaches a new level of absurdity. Banning apple sales on an island where finding fruit is already a daily miracle seems like a cruel joke, and restricting sunglasses or clothing reveals more about state paranoia than any serious strategy for ensuring safety.
While the people strive to survive amidst shortages, blackouts, and repression, the authorities continue to fine-tune a carnival that, rather than a celebration, resembles a parade of absurdities.
Common Questions About Bayamo's Carnival Restrictions
Why are apples, sunglasses, and clothing banned at the Bayamo carnival?
The authorities claim the ban is part of efforts to prevent public disturbances, although the rationale behind these specific prohibitions remains unclear and has sparked confusion among residents.
What was the reaction to the ban on selling certain items at the carnival?
The announcement has left many Cubans bewildered, questioning how these items could pose a threat to public order at a festivity. The move is seen as indicative of the regime's excessive control over public life.