This past weekend, the state telecommunications company ETECSA in Mayabeque shared images of its employees participating in a military exercise. The intent was to showcase the defensive readiness of institutions and work collectives. In a statement shared on Facebook, ETECSA's Territorial Division emphasized that "we all have the duty to prepare for the defense of the Fatherland."
However, the images related to the event quickly became the subject of ridicule and sarcasm on social media due to the apparent inadequacy of the equipment used. The photos depicted makeshift shooting practices, featuring women dressed in office attire and high heels. Rather than projecting military strength, many users interpreted the scenes as a testament to the country's decline and seized the opportunity to criticize the state-owned company for its high-priced phone plans.
The social media commentary was swift and biting. One user commented, "Here are the effects of power outages, hunger, misery, and ETECSA's prices. Congratulations, keep it up, it's an embarrassing joke." Another remarked, "To defend the Fatherland from an army of bloated leaders!" Other comments included, "That's why the connection is so bad, because you all get too distracted," and "What a ridiculous display by all these people who participate in this; don't they feel any shame?"
Another Cuban stated, "The one thing I'm sure of is that you all have good aim: when you hike ETECSA's prices, you hit ordinary people hard."
These activities are part of the so-called "War of the Entire People," a popular defense doctrine established in the 1980s that the Cuban government continues to promote despite the nation's economic hardships. The observance of Defense Day occurs amid ongoing power outages, shortages, and rising social discontent across various provinces.
Official propaganda typically highlights these exercises as proof of national unity against potential foreign invasion. However, for a significant portion of the populace, the images of sticks, makeshift uniforms, and poorly maintained rifles symbolize the country's precarious state and the lack of solutions to everyday problems.
Understanding ETECSA's Military Exercise Controversy
What was the purpose of ETECSA's military exercise?
The exercise aimed to demonstrate the defensive preparedness of institutions and work collectives as part of the "War of the Entire People" doctrine.
Why did the images of the exercise receive criticism?
The images were mocked for showing inadequate and outdated equipment, with employees in office attire, which many saw as a symbol of the country's decline.
How did social media users react to the event?
Social media users quickly criticized and mocked the exercise, highlighting the perceived inadequacy of the effort and linking it to broader issues such as high phone plan costs and national economic struggles.