Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, a former Cuban spy and the national coordinator for the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR), recently posted a video on Facebook showcasing a festive gathering in Ciego de Ávila. This comes at a time when Cuba is grappling with widespread power outages, food shortages, and increasing social discontent.
The footage reveals a group engaged in a casino-style dance, seemingly part of the preparations for the upcoming 65th anniversary of the CDR, set for celebration on September 28. In a sarcastic tone, Hernández comments to the camera, "This is all artificial intelligence; there are no CDRs in Cuba. Haters, don't suffer, don't suffer."
His message, aimed at critics questioning the relevance of the organization founded by Fidel Castro in 1960, has sparked outrage on social media. Many perceive it as a mockery of the harsh realities most Cubans endure.
CDR: Between Disrepute and Social Control
Established as the "eyes and ears of the Revolution," the CDR has long served as a neighborhood surveillance mechanism, promoting informant culture and political oversight. However, its influence has waned, with dwindling participation in many areas where traditional "cederista watches" and membership dues have ceased. The organization now largely consists of an aging, unenthusiastic base.
Aware of this decline, authorities are attempting to rejuvenate its structure. Earlier in September, Hernández introduced a series of initiatives to "revitalize" the CDR, asserting, "We must prove to Cubans that the CDR is useful, that we are present in the community." The plan includes the "100 tasks for Fidel Castro's centenary" campaign, part of the government's strategy to keep the late dictator's legacy alive.
From Dancing to Neighborhood Surveillance
The joyous scene shared by Gerardo starkly contrasts with the CDR's other role: acting as a control tool amid increasing social tension. In mid-September, during an event in Pinar del Río, officials urged the transformation of each surveillance post into a "battalion of defense and combativeness" to counter protests stemming from the energy crisis.
The official rhetoric insists that "no true revolutionary can live on a block where the CDR is inactive," yet the reality in neighborhoods tells a different story. Prolonged power outages, sometimes lasting over 24 hours, lead to cries of "Freedom," detentions, hasty trials, and reports of dire living conditions across the nation.
"Bread and Circuses" Amidst Blackouts
Reactions to Gerardo Hernández's video were swift. "In Carbonera, Matanzas, where Gerardo visited for a provincial event, not even a bone was left for soup, and they're in blackout all day… such a way to pretend everything's fine while Cuba falls apart," lamented Sisit Tejera.
Others were more blunt: "Turn the power on," they demanded, mocking the official narrative: "Does anyone honestly believe Facebook cares about the CDR celebration? Come on, be serious, at least."
Skepticism is echoed in numerous comments. "That must be the only CDR in the country that's celebrating… people are more concerned about when the water or power will be back," remarked an online user.
The public sentiment underscores a disconnect between the scenes of dance and merriment and the everyday struggles of millions of Cubans, who navigate life amidst uncertainty, hunger, and darkness. While leaders stage a spectacle for propaganda purposes, the populace continues to wait for real solutions to an unrelenting crisis.
Understanding Cuba's CDR and Current Challenges
What is the purpose of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) in Cuba?
The CDR was originally established to be the "eyes and ears of the Revolution," functioning as a neighborhood surveillance system to promote informant culture and political control within communities.
Why has the CDR been criticized in recent times?
The CDR has faced criticism for its outdated practices and diminishing influence. Many see it as irrelevant, with few members actively participating and a general decline in its ability to fulfill its original surveillance and control roles.
How are Cubans reacting to the current crisis?
Cubans are expressing their frustration through protests, particularly in response to extended power outages and other hardships. Many are critical of government efforts to mask the crisis with propaganda instead of providing real solutions.