Renowned Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac once again stirred social media with a sharp critique of the government's failure to address the nation's dire economic and social conditions. "There are no concrete steps aimed at changing the current situation... not even bad ones. And that terrifies me," he expressed in a Facebook post that highlighted the tense atmosphere marked by the collapse of the Cuban peso, near-constant blackouts, and widespread shortages.
Toirac mockingly addressed the country's energy policy, stating, "All we hear about is the National Electric System (SEN) and solar parks that supposedly will improve electricity production in the future. Even if true, you can't eat electricity."
The comedian concluded with a stark message: the government's silence is more disturbing than the population's hardships. It's noteworthy that the SEN continues to experience major disruptions due to a severe generation capacity deficit, leaving Cubans enduring daily and prolonged power outages across the island.
The Electric Union (UNE) reported on Thursday that service disruptions lasted throughout the previous day and persisted into the early morning. The peak outage was 1,885 megawatts at 9:30 PM on Wednesday. The outlook for the coming days remains uncertain, with no immediate improvement in sight, as millions of Cubans face long hours without power, aggravating daily life and increasing social discontent.
Toirac's Response to Criticism Over Healthcare
His statements coincided with a social media uproar where some criticized him for using Cuba's public healthcare system. Toirac responded with irony, stating that his care was proper and free at Havana's Pando Ferrer Hospital. "Contrary to what some might wish, they didn't throw acid in my eye; instead, they conducted a thorough examination... and with upcoming injections, my recovery is expected to improve," he recounted.
Staying true to his style, he sarcastically added, "I’m off to the store to get my rations, because even though I don't live here, I live here," reaffirming his connection to everyday life in Cuba. While many of his fans offered support and well-wishes, others pointed out that the "free" healthcare in Cuba is an illusion, paid for by the population's low standard of living.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the current status of Cuba's National Electric System (SEN)?
Cuba's National Electric System is experiencing significant challenges due to a capacity deficit, resulting in prolonged daily power outages nationwide.
How have Cubans been affected by the ongoing energy crisis?
Millions of Cubans are enduring long hours without electricity, which disrupts daily life and exacerbates social unrest across the country.
What was Ulises Toirac's criticism regarding the government's action?
Ulises Toirac criticized the government for its inaction amidst the crisis, stating that not even ineffective measures are being taken, which he finds alarming.