In a bold move, the Cuban government has decided to release local delegates from their regular jobs, allowing them to fully dedicate their efforts to addressing the needs of the public. This decision comes amid a severe energy and water supply crisis that has sparked increasing protests across various regions of the island.
This strategic initiative of community engagement, with political leaders working directly on the ground, takes place against a backdrop of growing social unrest and a surge in mass demonstrations. During a videoconference led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, the dire situation facing the nation was openly acknowledged.
From the Palace of the Revolution, Díaz-Canel and Marrero engaged in discussions with authorities from all provinces and the Special Municipality of Isla de la Juventud, addressing the impacts caused by the collapse of the National Electric System and the shortage of drinking water. Marrero emphasized the importance of reinforcing efforts within communities, highlighting the necessity of "direct communication with the people." He believes this approach is the most effective during challenging times like these.
“Municipal directors should be alongside the delegates so they can enter neighborhoods and provide information to the public,” he stated. In cities such as Havana and Santiago de Cuba, the authorities have mobilized delegates for community tasks, relieving them of their job responsibilities. This measure aims to strengthen communication with citizens, who are demanding answers due to the decline in basic services.
Yudelkis Ortiz Barceló, the first secretary of the Communist Party in Granma, emphasized that "nothing surpasses direct contact with the people" and underscored the importance of maintaining a connection within communities by providing clear and direct information "where there is a greater concentration of the population."
In recent days, citizen protests have been reported in parts of the capital and in eastern Cuban towns like Gibara, where residents have begun to publicly voice their dissatisfaction with the regime's inefficiency. Despite the challenging circumstances, Díaz-Canel and Marrero insisted that the country has the capacity to overcome the crisis, assuring that their government team is "planning for the future," although they did not provide details on short, medium, or long-term solutions.
Key Questions About Cuba's Current Crisis
What prompted the Cuban government to release local delegates from their jobs?
The Cuban government released local delegates from their jobs to focus entirely on addressing public needs amid a severe energy and water crisis that has led to increasing protests across the country.
How are the Cuban authorities responding to the energy and water crisis?
Cuban authorities, led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, are engaging in direct community communication, with local delegates working on the ground to address public concerns and provide information.
Have there been public protests in Cuba due to the crisis?
Yes, there have been public protests in various areas, including the capital Havana and towns like Gibara, where residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with the regime's handling of the crisis.