Cuban Leaders Vow to Overcome Crisis Despite Challenges

On Thursday, Cuban leaders Miguel Díaz-Canel and Manuel Marrero led a significant meeting with officials from all provinces and the Special Municipality of Isla de la Juventud to discuss the severe electricity and water supply crisis affecting the Cuban people. This meeting took place via videoconference from the Palacio de la Revolución. Despite the dire circumstances, both leaders expressed optimism, declaring, "We will indeed move forward," while emphasizing that their administration is "planning for the future."

Electricity System Under Severe Strain

During the meeting, Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy acknowledged the critical state of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN), exacerbated by the shutdown of several power plants, including Felton and a unit at Mariel. He noted that "Felton should be operational by Saturday," but conceded that significant challenges persist, particularly during the night-time peak hours. Regarding fuel supply, he mentioned that "various alternatives are being pursued," and efforts are ongoing to repair transformers.

Díaz-Canel urged the Electric Union to ensure a more equitable distribution of power outages. "I know it's complicated, but we’ve noticed that provincial capitals are given priority, leaving some municipalities without power for up to 25 hours. That cannot continue," he stated.

Water Supply Crisis Exacerbated by Power Outages

A staggering 50% of water supply issues stem from power shortages, compounded by drought and equipment failures. The drought is so severe that in Santiago de Cuba, authorities have resorted to activating wells, distributing water via trucks, and even considering the use of rail transport to move water. "In the areas we're visiting, we're engaging directly with the population," said Antonio Rodríguez, president of the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources.

Delegates Mobilized Amid Growing Unrest

In Havana and other provinces, emergency measures have been implemented, including freeing Circumscription Delegates from their regular jobs to focus on assisting affected citizens. Marrero urged delegates to be present in their communities. "Municipal directors should be alongside delegates, providing information to the population. Direct communication is the most effective approach," he emphasized.

This initiative arises amidst an increase in public protests in the capital and other cities like Santiago de Cuba and Gibara. Citizens, frustrated with the ongoing crisis, are beginning to demand their rights without fear of the regime.

Criticism of Social Unrest and Focus on Surveillance

Díaz-Canel described the country's situation as a "context of contingencies," but assured that "the enemy failed to exploit social discontent for their own agenda of social upheaval." He cited the "unity between the Party, the Government, and mass organizations" as key to weathering these challenges, while overlooking the fear many Cubans feel about protesting due to state repression.

He also stressed the importance of "increased revolutionary vigilance" and maintaining open dialogue with the public: "Everything must be explained, every day." As the meeting concluded, he reiterated the message of resilience and social control, asserting, "No one here will give up."

Nevertheless, the president did not provide immediate solutions to the long-standing power outages plaguing the nation. Despite lacking a clear strategy, he continued to insist, "We are projecting the future."

This meeting followed Cuba's fifth nationwide blackout in less than a year, amid reports of power interruptions lasting over 24 hours in various provinces.